GoKawiilUK CMA proposes yearly search-choice prompts for Android and Chrome
The UK Competition and Markets Authority has proposed requiring Google and Android device makers to present search-engine choice screens when phones or Chrome are first set up, followed by annual prompts. The plan also calls for offering users a choice of AI assistants that meet certain security standards, and for requiring search providers to clearly attribute publisher content shown in results. The proposals build on measures introduced earlier in 2026, including a June 3rd rule letting publishers opt out of AI results.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Codifying and repeating search-choice prompts could make it harder for Google's default search position on Android and Chrome to persist unchallenged over time, even though UK users already technically have that choice. Extending choice screens to AI assistants suggests regulators are trying to get ahead of a shift toward AI-based search before dominant players entrench themselves, as CMA chief Sarah Cardell described it as 'future-proofing' options. The publisher attribution requirement could also affect how much traffic and visibility news outlets receive from AI-driven search results.
- CMA wants annual search-choice reminders on Android and Chrome, not just a one-time setup prompt.
- New rules would extend choice-screen requirements to AI assistants meeting security criteria.
- Search providers would be required to clearly attribute publisher content in results, following June's opt-out rule for AI results.
Source: engadget.com — Steve Dent, 2026-09-23
Published there as: “UK competition watchdog wants to give Android and Chrome users more search engine choices”
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