Key facts
- Switzerland's Competition Commission (COMCO) has initiated a preliminary investigation into Google.
- The probe focuses on Google's decision to remove the 'Choice Screen' feature from Android devices in Switzerland.
- This feature allowed users to choose their preferred search engine during initial device setup.
- COMCO stated that Google Search is now the default for Swiss users, limiting visibility for competitors.
- The regulator cited potential impacts on competition and unequal treatment compared to European users.
Switzerland's Competition Commission (COMCO) has initiated a preliminary investigation into Google concerning the removal of a feature that allowed users to select their default search engine on Android devices. The authority stated on Tuesday that the 'Choice Screen' feature, which enabled users to opt out of Google Search during initial device setup, has been removed in Switzerland, unlike in other European countries.
As a result, Google Search is now the default search engine for Swiss users. COMCO indicated that default settings play a crucial role in digital markets and that the removal of this option limits the visibility of competing search engines. The commission warned that this practice could affect the ability of other search engine providers and digital service providers to compete, and creates unequal treatment for Swiss users compared to those in the European Economic Area.
Google acknowledged being aware of the investigation and stated its intention to cooperate fully with the authority. The preliminary investigation will determine if there are indications of unlawful competition under the Swiss Cartel Act. According to web analytics company Statcounter, Google holds a dominant 82% share of the search market in Switzerland.