In an attempt to reinforce its commitment against online piracy, search engine titan, Google, has initiated steps to enhance protection for artists and promote legal content distribution platforms on the internet. This move comes in response to consistent outcry from artists and industry experts who have been advocating for the demotion of search results that lead to illegal download sites.
Google’s new policy pivots towards ensuring that when users key in a search term such as “music download”, they will be directed primarily towards legitimate websites offering music streaming and downloading services. This includes popular platforms such as Spotify, iTunes, and numerous others that operate under legally approved bounds.
These lawful services will now be even more conspicuous, being featured in a dedicated box at the pinnacle of the search results, as well as in a prominently displayed box on the right-hand side of the search page. This ensures visibility to users, thereby bolstering visits to these sites while reducing traffic to piracy propagating sites.
It’s noteworthy that Google, a firm advocate of internet freedom and an arena for self-expression, has always disputed against any restrictions, excluding those involving child abuse allegations and blatant breaches of human rights. However, in the scenario of the battle against online piracy, there is a subtle twist. For legal streaming and download services to avail this beneficial exposure, they would have to bear a certain patronage cost – akin to how advert spaces function currently on the platform.
The music industry has warmly welcomed Google’s proactive move with open arms, although stakeholders do voice a concern that companies shouldn’t be compelled to pay for this service. They justify that seeking legal services should be a fundamental right of users which shouldn’t come with a price tag attached.
This article was updated in 2025 to reflect modern realities.
I am Martin Odinuwe, a logo identity designer, Graphic designer, Video editor and a professional videographer based in Abuja, Nigeria with over five years experience. I am currently a consultant with Reachout Multiservice company ltd a multimedia company in Abuja
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