Google faces hefty fine for using news content without permission for AI chatbotFrench authorities to fine Google $272 million for violating media compensation agreements. Credit: techxplore.com

The French authorities announced on Wednesday that they would be imposing a hefty fine of 250 million euros (equivalent to $272 million) on Google for violating their commitments to compensate media companies for the use of their content online. This includes the unauthorized use of their material for their AI chatbot, without informing them.

Google had previously promised to engage in fair negotiations with French news organizations in 2022, after receiving a 500-million-euro penalty from the Competition Authority for an ongoing disagreement. The dispute had been brought to the regulator's attention by various organizations representing French magazines, newspapers, and Agence France-Presse (AFP) back in 2019.

As part of their commitments, the tech giant was required to provide transparent payment offers to news groups within three months of receiving a copyright complaint. However, the regulator stated that Google had failed to honor these commitments and had not negotiated in good faith with the publishers.

The watchdog also discovered that Google had used press agencies' content without notifying them or the authority while training their AI platform known as Bard (now referred to as Gemini). The company also did not provide a technical solution for publishers and news agencies to object to the use of their content, which hindered their ability to negotiate fair remuneration.

Google agreed to the settlement process but did not dispute the facts and proposed corrective measures to address the issues identified by the regulator. However, in a statement, Google argued that the fine was disproportionate and did not take into account their efforts to resolve the concerns raised. They also expressed frustration with the unpredictable nature of the regulatory environment.

The EU introduced a new form of copyright in 2019, known as "neighboring rights," which allows print media to demand payment for the use of their content. France has been at the forefront of implementing these rules, and after initial resistance, Google and Facebook agreed to compensate French media for their articles featured in web searches. Other EU countries have also challenged Google over news content, with Spain launching an investigation last year, and Germany temporarily halting an inquiry into Google's News Showcase service after the company made changes to address competition concerns.

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Ann Castro carries a total of 7 years experience in the healthcare domain. She owns a Master’s of Medicine Degree. She bagged numerous awards by contributing in the medical field with her ground-breaking notions. Ann has developed her own style of working and known for accuracy in her work. She loves trekking. She visits new places whenever she gets free time.