Google Faces Major Fines Over Google Play as EU Demands More Concessions – 2025

Google Faces Major Fines Over Google Play as EU Demands More Concessions

As of 10 December 2025, credible sources indicate that the European Commission is preparing to impose significant fines on Google over perceived non‑compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Regulators argue that despite policy updates earlier this year, the company still exerts unfair control over Android app distribution via Google Play.

The dispute centers on Google’s Play Store billing system, which often requires developers to use Google’s in-app payment services rather than allowing alternative, potentially cheaper payment methods. EU authorities contend this practice violates the DMA, a law designed to prevent large tech companies from abusing market dominance and stifling fair competition.

Although Google introduced policy updates in August 2025 — including measures to allow more external payment options — European regulators have deemed these changes insufficient. Sources familiar with the matter say the adjustments failed to deliver genuine choice to developers or adequately protect consumer rights. The European Commission is now considering financial penalties if Google does not implement deeper reforms.

Under the DMA, the EU can fine companies up to 10% of their global annual revenue. For a company of Google’s size, such fines could reach billions of dollars, making this potential action one of the largest regulatory penalties in modern tech history. This case follows previous EU crackdowns on Google over search and advertising dominance, reflecting a broader push for stricter oversight.

Google has defended its policies, stating that restrictions are necessary to protect users from fraud, malware, and unsafe transactions. However, regulators maintain that security concerns cannot be used to justify anti-competitive practices.

The global implications of this situation are substantial. If the EU successfully forces Google to make broader concessions, other regions may adopt similar regulatory measures. This could reshape app store operations, giving developers more freedom and potentially reducing costs for consumers worldwide.

This growing conflict marks a significant shift in the balance of power between global tech giants and international regulators. In the coming months, it will become clear whether Google will comply with further demands or face one of the largest fines ever imposed on a technology company. Regardless of the outcome, this case is set to establish an important precedent for the future of digital markets.