Google Store, hotels, flights and other services will show more accurate information in the EU

The EU’s Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPCN) has been in talks with Google since 2021 to make some online services more transparent and to better align them with EU geo-blocking laws.

The Google Play Store lets you browse releases targeting different countries within the EU, something you might not know about (here’s how). Google has agreed to make this option more visible to users. Google allows you to change your country of residence once a year, but some of the restrictions it enforces violate geo-blocking laws, according to the CPCN.

In addition, Google will allow you to use the payment services of any EU member country. App developers also have to abide by geo-blocking rules, so Google will make sure they are aware of the details.

Regarding the purchase of hardware from the Google Store, the company has agreed to show some details more clearly: delivery costs, right of return and availability of repair and replacement options.

If you use Google Hotels and Flights to plan your trips, you will soon notice some changes. For example, it can sometimes be confusing if you’re dealing with Google or if the company is just acting as an intermediary. This will be clarified.

Additionally, any discounts shown will also have clear information on which price was used as a reference. Additionally, Google will clarify that reviews on the Google Hotels platform are not verified.

Google has agreed to increase transparency for the offers and reviews it lists

Google has committed to following the same transparency guidelines as other major booking platforms such as Expedia and Booking.com.

The changes that Google has accepted have not yet been implemented and it is not clear when they will take effect. CPCN and local authorities will continue to monitor the situation to ensure compliance.

Didier Reynders, Commissioner for Justice, said: “Even today, almost three years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, we see an increasing number of consumers turning to the internet to book their holidays, make purchases or consult a review. EU consumers have the right to clear and complete information so they can make informed choices. The commitments made by Google are a step forward in this direction. We ask Google to fully comply with the geo-blocking regulation , ensuring that consumers can enjoy the same rights and access the same content, wherever they are in the EU”.