EU Investigates Google’s AI Model Content Usage

The European Union has initiated an investigation into Google’s potential breaches of competition regulations regarding the use of online content from publishers and YouTube creators for its artificial intelligence systems. This scrutiny is particularly focused on Google’s Gemini AI model, owned by its parent company Alphabet, and whether its practices might disadvantage competing AI developers.

According to the European Commission, the investigation aims to determine if Google is distorting competition by imposing unfair conditions on content providers, or by granting itself unauthorized access to their work. The Commission highlighted concerns that Google may be utilizing content from web publishers without adequately compensating them, particularly when generating AI-driven results on its search pages.

Additionally, the inquiry suggests that Google might be employing content uploaded to YouTube to train its generative AI models without providing appropriate compensation or allowing creators the option to refuse such usage. The European Commission remarked, “Content creators uploading videos on YouTube have an obligation to grant Google permission to use their data for different purposes, including for training generative AI models.”
Conversely, Google restricts third-party companies from using YouTube videos for AI training unless content creators permit it through specific settings.

Despite this, YouTube indicates to creators that it leverages uploaded videos to enhance user experiences on its platform, stating, “we use content uploaded to YouTube to improve the product experience for creators and viewers across YouTube and Google, including through machine learning and AI applications.” Recent reports suggest that Google is utilizing a selection of YouTube videos to aid in the training of its Gemini and Veo3 models.

The EU’s competition chief, Teresa Ribera, commented on the necessity of innovation in AI while upholding essential societal principles. Rifera acknowledged that while AI generates considerable benefits, it must not compromise foundational regulations and fairness in the digital marketplace.

In response, a Google spokesperson argued that the complaint could hinder innovation in a highly competitive sector, emphasizing that European consumers deserve access to cutting-edge technologies. This ongoing investigation marks yet another chapter in the EU’s broader challenges against major US tech firms.

Previous fines against Google, including a nearly €3 billion penalty for favoring its own advertising services, underscore the EU’s determination to enforce compliance among tech giants. The scrutiny also extends to other companies, as seen with recent penalties imposed on Elon Musk’s platform X for violating online regulations.

This investigation follows earlier scrutiny of Meta for AI implementations on WhatsApp and Apple’s tax dispute in Ireland, highlighting the ongoing regulatory landscape faced by US tech entities in Europe. In a related context, Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet, recently cautioned against over-reliance on AI, urging users to integrate these tools with critical thinking, especially in light of potential missteps in AI technology.