UK regulator mandates clearer source links in Google AI search and publisher opt-out rights (arstechnica.com)

• CMA orders Google to provide clearer links in AI search results and allow UK publishers to opt out
• Publishers can opt out at directory and page levels without search ranking penalties
• Google has nine months to comply, must submit implementation plan and compliance reports
• Google announces new Search Console controls for website owners, initially tested in UK

"The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has ordered Google to provide clearer attribution and links to publishers' content in its AI-generated search features, such as AI Overviews. Publishers must be allowed to opt out at directory and page levels without facing penalties in general search rankings. Google has nine months to comply and must submit compliance reports. The CMA determined Google has strategic market status in general search. Google announced it will test new controls in Search Console for website owners to manage AI feature appearance, initially in the UK, with global rollout later. The News Media Association called the decision a significant step toward a fair digital economy."