Google is ordered by the EU to open Android to AI competitors and share search data

The European Union has introduced new legally binding measures requiring Google to make its search and Android platforms more accessible to competing AI companies. The move is part of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to increase competition and reduce the dominance of major technology platforms.

Android Must Support Competing AI Assistants

Under the new rules, Google will have to give rival AI assistants access to key Android features that are currently more deeply integrated with Gemini.

This could allow third-party AI assistants to perform tasks such as voice activation, searching for information, sending messages, or completing actions across apps with functionality closer to Google’s own AI services.

Google Must Share Search Data

The EU is also requiring Google to share certain anonymized search data with competing search engines and AI companies.

The goal is to help rivals improve their search and AI services without relying entirely on Google’s ecosystem, while maintaining privacy safeguards for users.

When Will the Changes Take Effect?

The first data-sharing requirements are expected to begin in January 2027, while the Android interoperability changes are scheduled to roll out by July 2027.

Google has expressed concerns that the rules could affect user privacy and security, but EU regulators say only qualified companies meeting strict requirements will receive access.

Conclusion

The EU’s latest decision marks another major step in regulating large technology platforms. By opening Android to competing AI assistants and requiring Google to share search data, regulators hope to create a more competitive AI ecosystem and give users greater choice in how they access digital services.