EU orders Google to open Android and share search data with rivals

The European Commission on Thursday issued two binding decisions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) requiring Google to grant rival AI assistants equal access to Android features and share search data with competitors. Google must comply by July 2027 for Android changes and January 2027 for data sharing.

Android AI access

Currently, third-party AI assistants like ChatGPT or Claude have limited access to key Android functions compared to Google's Gemini. The EU mandates that Google open up 11 features, allowing users to set a preferred assistant, activate it via voice commands (like 'Hey Google'), and let it perform tasks such as booking a taxi or suggesting replies. Google must also enable these assistants to interact within apps. The Commission expects this to boost competition for the 60% of EU smartphone users on Android Source: The Next Web.

Search data sharing

Separately, Google must share anonymised search data — the same data it uses to improve its own search — with rival search engines and AI chatbots with search functions. The data will be anonymised, grouped into bundles of at least 1,000 users, and subject to independent audits. Only vetted firms with clear improvement plans can receive it Source: AP News.

Google's objections

Google has strongly opposed both measures. Kent Walker, President of Global Affairs, argued they "risk undermining vital privacy and security guardrails for millions of Europeans" and warned that sharing search data could expose personal searches without user consent or adequate anonymisation Source: The Verge. The EU counters that its safeguards are robust and that Google can deny data to firms posing security risks Source: Euronews.

The decisions are part of broader EU tech regulation. Unlike Apple, which withheld its new Siri AI from Europe citing DMA compliance difficulties, Google secured a longer runway — giving it time to expand Gemini before rivals gain equivalent access Source: The Verge. Non-compliance could lead to fines of up to 10% of Google's global annual turnover.