Update: Swiss Competition Commission Initiates Preliminary Probe on Google's Removal of Choice Screen Feature
(Updates to add Google's statement) The Swiss antitrust regulator is probing Alphabet's (ABEA.F) Google over its decision to remove the option for users to choose a default search engine when setting up a new Android device. The Competition Commission said Tuesday that eliminating the choice screen feature could undermine the ability of search engine providers and other digital service providers to compete. Google removed this feature in Switzerland, although it remains available across the European Economic Area. The preliminary investigation will assess whether the change indicates a potential unlawful restriction of competition under the Cartel Act. In an emailed statement to, a Google spokesperson said the company is aware of the preliminary probe. "We look forward to cooperating fully with the authority to address their questions," the spokesperson added.
(Updates to add Google's statement) The Swiss antitrust regulator is probing Alphabet's (ABEA.F) Google over its decision to remove the option for users to choose a default search engine when setting up a new Android device.
The Competition Commission said Tuesday that eliminating the choice screen feature could undermine the ability of search engine providers and other digital service providers to compete.
Google removed this feature in Switzerland, although it remains available across the European Economic Area.
The preliminary investigation will assess whether the change indicates a potential unlawful restriction of competition under the Cartel Act.
In an emailed statement to, a Google spokesperson said the company is aware of the preliminary probe. "We look forward to cooperating fully with the authority to address their questions," the spokesperson added.