EU Orders Google to Share Android and Search Data with AI Rivals Under Digital Markets Act

European Union regulators have ordered Alphabet's Google to open key features of its Android operating system and share certain search data with artificial intelligence rivals, including OpenAI. The measures, announced by the European Commission on Thursday, are designed to curb the company's market power in compliance with the bloc's landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA).

New Requirements for Google

The Commission outlined two main requirements for Google following a six-month investigation into its compliance with the DMA. These rules are intended to level the playing field for competing AI services and search providers.

• Android Access: Google must grant rival AI developers access to 11 Android system features. This will enable competing AI assistants to perform functions currently available to Google's own Gemini AI. Starting in July 2027, users will be able to set a third-party AI as their default voice assistant and use it for tasks like booking rides or getting location information.
• Search Data Sharing: Google will be required to share anonymized search query data with AI chatbot providers that offer search capabilities. The rule, effective January 2027, allows rivals to use the data to improve their own services. Google can vet applicants for cybersecurity risks and will establish a pricing mechanism for the data.

Fostering AI Competition

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These measures represent the EU's latest effort to rein in the power of designated tech "gatekeepers" under the DMA. Regulators aim to create a more competitive digital landscape, particularly in the rapidly growing AI sector.

"Thanks to these measures we hope to see emerging alternatives to Google Search and Google's AI services, such as Gemini, and that users in the EU can enjoy greater choice of services," said EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen in a statement. The Commission noted that the new rules include safeguards to protect user privacy and device security.

Broader Regulatory Context

This decision against Google is part of a wider regulatory push in Europe. In recent months, Brussels has also pressured Apple to improve interoperability for third-party devices and ordered Meta to alter features that regulators believe foster addictive behavior. For investors, these ongoing regulatory actions highlight a significant and persistent risk for major technology firms operating within the European Union, potentially impacting their integrated business models and long-term growth strategies.