Google could be forced to pay for Swiss news content

Monday, 23 June 2025 06:30

Big changes ahead for Google in Switzerland. Until now, the tech giant could use Swiss media content for free – but that’s about to change.

The Federal Council plans to amend the Copyright Act, forcing platforms to pay for news content.

A study says Google could owe Swiss outlets over CHF 150m a year.

A collective group would handle the payments – ensuring small publishers and regional journalists get their fair share.

Unlike the EU, Switzerland won’t ban access – but platforms will have to pay to play.

More from Bitesize News

Thousands demand Gaza ceasefire in Bern

Thousands marched in Bern over the weekend to express their solidarity with Gaza and demanding the Federal Council back a ceasefire in the region.
Geneva shocked at planned G7 meeting in Evian

The announcement by the French president, Emmanuel Macron, that the next G7 summit will be held in Evian is worrying many who remember the last time the meeting was held on the lakeside town in 2003.
Several e-scooters impounded in Geneva

A surprise inspection of electric scooters in Geneva led to several machines being impounded.
Tourists worried about USA

The Foreign Ministry’s telephone hotline for travel advice has been immensely busy for the past few months.
Geneva communes angry at canton's cash call

After it’s record-breaking tax haul, Geneva has to pay the most into the national inter-cantonal equalization fund – more even than Zug and Zurich.
SNB cuts rates to zero

As expected, the Swiss National Bank has lowered interest rates to zero.