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Google complies with EU orders to remove navigation services from search results jasondeegan.com/google-maps-is-over-the-tech-giant-complies-with-eu-orders-to-remove-navigation-services-from-search-results/

262 sats \ 4 comments \ @south_korea_ln 6 Jan tech

For years, Google Maps has been a go-to tool for millions worldwide, seamlessly integrated into search results for instant access to directions, locations, and more. But if you’ve noticed something missing recently, you’re not imagining things. Due to European Union regulations, Google has been forced to remove its Maps functionality from its search results, marking a significant shift in how we interact with the tech giant’s ecosystem.

That's one way of attacking the megacorps.

I understand the intention. But i don't believe it'll work. I was used to use Google maps when i lived outside of Korea, but i kept using it for a long time here despite not being the ideal option within Korean territory. I just made due with the inconvenience of Google's limitations within Korea rather than cutting it out of my routine...

That being said, I've slowly started incorporating the more convenient alternatives too, so maybe there's a case to be made for such regulation.

Can you think of ways that don't require regulatory intervention?

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0 sats \ 3 replies \ @NovaRift 6 Jan

Interesting point. Instead of heavy regulations, fostering competition with local mapping services or open source platforms could be a better way.

10 sats \ 2 replies \ @south_korea_ln OP 6 Jan

I would bring up Microsoft's Windows OS monopoly as an example that, even with alternative open source platforms such as Linux, the vast majority of normies still use Windows as the default option. But also there, regulations tried to fight Microsoft's supremacy, and I don't feel like it really worked.

So, does this mean, they are just too big to fail? With and without regulations?

153 sats \ 1 reply \ @NovaRift 6 Jan

So, does this mean, they are just too big to fail? With and without regulations?

Yes, exactly. Unless you're in countries like China or South Korea, where Baidu Maps and NAVER Maps dominate, it’s nearly impossible to introduce alternatives like Google Maps. In major countries that failed to nurture local startups or alternatives, Google Maps has become a habit, a part of life. Once something becomes a habit, replacing it is almost impossible—especially when it means sacrificing convenience. These giants have reached a level of dominance where, if they wanted, they could halt the functioning of entire nations.

Personally, I still use Google Maps but have started trying Waze, which is also owned by Google. Honestly, I don’t want to lose the convenience it provides, and most people feel the same. Governments worldwide are now waking up to the risks of this concentrated power and trying to regulate it. But it’s too late—people simply don’t see alternatives anymore. Maybe I went beyond the scope of your question, but this is the reality as I see it.

21 sats \ 0 replies \ @south_korea_ln OP 6 Jan

Not beyond the scope, at all. Thanks.

All of this is why I have high hopes, all while having only little hope for protocols such as NOSTR. People like convenience and are very opposed to change. This opposition to change was already illustrated with the recent introduction of Cowboy Credits here, even though the user experience barely changes with maybe a little bit more friction.

But maybe with the right incentive structure (zaps, wink wink), maybe so maybe, change is possible as people wake up to the walled gardens that all these megacorps have become. One can hope.