The European Commission has mandated Google to provide rival AI assistants broader access to Android features and share anonymised search data with competing search engines starting January 2027. This directive, issued under the EU’s Digital Markets Act, aims to level the playing field by reducing Google’s advantage from its exclusive access to Android and Google Search data, with wider Android access expected to roll out by July 2027, according to medianama.com.
Currently, Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, enjoys extensive integration with Android functions, while competitors face restrictions. The new rules require Google to enable users to activate third-party AI assistants via voice commands similar to “Hey Google” and allow these assistants to perform tasks across apps, such as booking taxis, suggesting replies in messaging apps, and providing location information. Google must open 11 Android features to eligible AI competitors who comply with privacy, cybersecurity, and device-security standards, as detailed by medianama.com and Reuters.
This move addresses concerns over Google’s dominant position in AI and search markets by granting competitors access to critical data and device capabilities. The EU’s intervention follows growing scrutiny of big tech’s control over data and platforms, aligning with broader regulatory efforts to foster competition. The Digital Markets Act’s enforcement marks a significant step in regulating AI ecosystems and data sharing, comparable to other regulatory actions targeting major technology firms in recent years, according to medianama.com.
Google is required to begin sharing anonymised search data with eligible companies from January 2027, with expanded Android feature access for rival AI assistants expected to be available to users by July 2027, per the European Commission’s timeline reported by medianama.com.