In effect, they argue, this creates indirect pressure that distorts competition and undermines fair trading.

A similar concern has been raised on YouTube, where creators are said to be required to accept terms allowing Google to use uploaded videos for AI development, without an opt-out option and without extra payment.

At the same time, Google is accused of restricting rival companies from accessing content on the platform for AI training, a move that could be viewed as an abuse of market power.

If Google is ultimately found to have violated EU competition law, it could face a fine of up to 10% of its annual worldwide revenue.