Google is reluctant to test a simpler hotel search format in Europe due to a requirement of European legislation

Google has announced that it is testing a simplified 'blue link' format for hotel searches in Belgium, Estonia and Germany under the European Digital Marketplace Act (DMA).

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The move is aimed at complying with new rules limiting the dominance of large tech companies. The new format omits features such as maps and hotel information, returning the search style to a more basic look reminiscent of Google's early days. Google's legal director Oliver Bethell expressed doubts about the benefits of the change for consumers and businesses in Europe, emphasising the company's reluctance to take this step.

The DMA prohibits Google from favouring its services, which has led to changes in the presentation of search results and ad formats. Earlier this year, European lawmakers launched investigations into Google, Apple and Meta for possible violations of the DMA, including self-referrals in search and restrictions in the App Store. Violations could result in fines of up to 20 per cent of the companies' global revenue.

Source: Google, MSPowerUser