Google defends publisher licensing model as Apple explores usage-based payments

Google has reaffirmed its support for the established system of compensating news publishers, positioning itself against a potential shift in industry norms proposed by Apple. The search giant maintains that it is the only major technology platform with a structured approach to paying publishers at scale, relying on licensing agreements rather than tying remuneration directly to artificial intelligence usage frequency.

According to City AM, Google currently holds licensing deals with more than 5,500 European press publishers. Under this framework, outlets are compensated when protected content, including text snippets, appears within Google’s AI Overviews and AI Mode features. The company continues to expand its network through the Google News Showcase programme, which encompasses approximately 2,800 publications across 33 countries. Additionally, Google is conducting a separate commercial pilot focused on artificial intelligence with news organisations.

This stance emerges as Apple prepares to launch an updated, AI-powered version of Siri later this year. The iPhone manufacturer has reportedly set aside a budget running into the hundreds of millions of dollars for publisher payments. However, unlike the guaranteed fees common in existing licensing agreements, Apple is considering a model where compensation depends on how often its assistant actually utilises specific journalism. This usage-based approach would offer greater financial upside to publishers whose content is frequently surfaced, but it provides less certainty than upfront guaranteed payments.

The debate highlights the growing importance of reliable, up-to-date information for AI products. Google argues that its partnerships are tailored to individual publishers and products, avoiding reliance on a single payment formula. Meanwhile, OpenAI has pursued a different strategy by securing individual agreements with major media groups such as News Corp and Axel Springer. While OpenAI declined to comment on speculation regarding Apple’s plans, it emphasised its existing collaborations with news organisations and its ongoing work with publishers using its technology.