Table of Contents
A key decision in the search engine sector has been reached as the Competition Authority dismissed a complaint filed by French search engine Qwant against Microsoft, alleging anti-competitive practices.The ruling underscores the complex dynamics of the online advertising and search market,dominated by Google and Microsoft.
The dispute began in 2016 when Qwant started using Bing’s technology for search results. Qwant claimed microsoft exploited its market power to create financial reliance and hinder competition. Why did Qwant file the complaint? As they believed Microsoft was unfairly leveraging its position to stifle their growth and innovation in the search engine market.
The core of Qwant’s grievances involved alleged abuses: exclusivity and tied sales practices, limitations on developing its own artificial intelligence model, and unequal access to online advertising services. search results generally consist of algorithmic results (ranked by relevance) and paid results (persistent by auctions). Most smaller search engines rely on syndication contracts with Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising, which control the majority of the search advertising industry.
The Competition Authority determined Qwant didn’t provide enough proof of Microsoft’s dominance in search result syndication. “Qwant did not provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate Microsoft’s dominant position,” a senior official stated. Who made the final decision? The Competition Authority, an self-reliant body responsible for enforcing competition law.
Google’s presence as a competitor in syndication services was a key factor. The European Commission recognizes Google’s “ultra-dominant position” in online advertising related to searches,creating competitive pressure on Microsoft. This makes Microsoft achieving a dominant position in syndication unlikely.
Economic Dependence Questioned
the Authority acknowledged Microsoft contributes significantly to Qwant’s revenue but found other criteria for establishing economic dependence weren’t met. Bing’s brand recognition is lower than Google’s, and Qwant can develop its own technology within the existing framework.
Qwant’s June 2025 launch of European search Viewpoint, a syndication offer with Ecosia using independent search technology, was particularly influential. How did Qwant demonstrate alternatives existed? By proactively developing and launching its own independent syndication offer, showing the market isn’t solely reliant on Microsoft.
The Authority examined accusations of exclusivity in ad supply,tying of organic and paid results,discriminatory advertising access,and restrictions on AI advancement. In each case, the evidence was insufficient to support the claims.
This ruling highlights the challenges smaller search engines face competing with industry leaders. It also emphasizes the need for concrete evidence. What was the ultimate outcome? The competition Authority rejected Qwant’s complaint, finding insufficient evidence to support allegations of anti-competitive practices by Microsoft.
