Google Search is perhaps the most popular and most used search engine in the world. Thus, when there is a proliferation of search engines, it certainly affects Google’s business. According to recent reports, the E.U. may have its own open search engine pretty soon. Not too long ago,Ā 14 research and computer centres in 7 countries of the European Union announced the launch of the OpenĀ Web Search Project (OpenWebSearch). This new project seeks to buildĀ Europe’s future web search engine. While we believe that this project is coming “soon”, there is no telling the launch date of the search engine.Ā The project has been developed from the European Union’s Horizon Research and Innovation. The plan has so far received 8.5 million euros in funding.
Gizchina News of the week
EU search engine will be free, open and fair
According to reports, the project aims to help people access information freely, openly and fairly. It also seeks to createĀ an open European Internet search infrastructure based on European values āāand jurisdictions. The project’s official website stated that at present, web searches are still dominated by some large technology companies. Thus, free, fair and transparent access to information as a public good is no longer under the control of the public.
Over the next three years, theĀ researchers will develop the core of the European Open Web Index (OWI). This will serve as the basis for new Internet searches in Europe.Ā Furthermore, the project will lay the foundation for an open and scalable European Open Web Search and Analysis Infrastructure (OWSAI). It will be based on European values, principles, legislation and standards.
The envisaged infrastructure will restore an open market for people-centred search engines. It will also contribute to European independence in web navigation and search. Furthermore, the European search engine willĀ enable European researchers to use the web freely. It will also allow innovators and businesses to systematically use the web as a business and innovation resource.
