THE HACK: Brussels holds its breath for Google fine

On 23 July 2026, the European Union fined Google 890 million euros (about 1 billion dollars) over its search and Play Store practices. The European Commission found breaches of EU competition and digital market rules, including favouring Google's own services and apps over rivals. Several outlets, including Der Spiegel and Tagesschau, called it a record fine, and Novinite said it was imposed under the Digital Markets Act.

The fine came as Brussels faced possible backlash from Trump, who has threatened to protect Big Tech, and as new US tariffs loomed. Google said it is in 'constructive' talks to avoid further penalties.