Large tech businesses are reorganizing their ecosystem regulations in reaction to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). For example, Google has recently begun to roll out a new Pixel Launcher feature in the EU that lets users change the search engine that gets used by default.

Renowned app researcher Mishaal Rahman first revealed the news (via MySmartPrice), after obtaining pertinent screenshots from a user. Users can now select from a list of search engines thanks to this new setting.

It shows the default Google search engine along with alternatives like DuckDuckGo and Ecosia. Furthermore, the home screen’s search bar icon is altered according on the search engine that is chosen.

By navigating to the app settings, users can quickly alter Pixel Launcher’s default search engine. Then only this:

• Tap on Home screen search settings
• Select Search engine
• Choose from the available options

This setting is currently exclusive to Europe; there is no word on when it will be made available in other regions.

Google is not the only big tech company that has changed how it operates in Europe since the DMA went into force. Additionally, Apple has significantly altered its ecosystem for users in the EU. Users in the EU can now choose their default browser and utilize alternative app stores thanks to the introduction of iOS 17.4.

Additionally, Meta had to change a few of its guidelines. For example, it started charging Facebook subscribers to access the platform without advertisements. Additionally, WhatsApp, the company’s messaging software, is getting ready to make adjustments including enabling cross-platform communication across Europe.

By leveling the playing field, the EU’s DMA seeks to improve fairness for all parties. It goes after large platforms that are in charge of regulating access to internet services as gatekeepers. Apple, Google, Microsoft, Meta, TikTok by Bytedance, and Amazon are the gatekeepers mentioned. To maintain fair competition and provide consumers with additional options, these digital companies must abide by new regulations.