EU Forces Google to Share Search Data, Open Android to Third-Party AI
The European Commission has adopted new DMA specification measures forcing Google to share search data with competing providers and open Android to third-party AI assistants. The measures are legally binding on Google as a designated gatekeeper. Google must be ready to start sharing search data by January 2027, and update Android for deeper AI app integration by July 2027.
Android AI Assistant Interoperability
Currently, Google’s Gemini gets preferential system access: preloaded on all Google-certified devices, wake-word activation via “Hey Google”, system and app automation features, and screen content access. The Commission states third-party AI assistants are limited, making them less attractive to 60% of EU Android users. Under the new rules, Google must open access to competing AI platforms so users can install an AI system of choice without losing features. The Commission says measures preserve user privacy and device integrity.
Search Data Sharing
Google must share search data transparently and for a reasonable fee with competing search providers. AI chatbots will be treated as search services for data-sharing purposes — meaning firms like OpenAI or Anthropic could request similar search metrics. The goal is to give smaller players a better chance to challenge Google’s dominance. The Commission alleges Google’s past sharing offers did not go far enough.
Google’s Response
Kent Walker, Google’s president of global affairs, claims the rules undermine privacy and security. He argues that AI tools are widely supported and phone makers already vet them. Google contends that sharing search data risks user privacy, business trade secrets, and national security, though the Commission is open to amending the decision to ensure identifiable data is handled properly. Google offered “more measured” solutions that it believed could satisfy the DMA goals, but the Commission chose a different path.
Timeline and Implementation
- Search data sharing: Google must be ready by January 2027.
- Android AI integration updates: Must be delivered by July 2027.
- Google will have time to hash out specifics with EU regulators.
For developers building AI assistants or search tools targeting EU users, these changes mean your products may soon get equal system access on Android and access to Google search data — opening competitive opportunities previously locked by Google’s defaults.
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