EU Orders Google to Open Android to Rival AI Services, Share Search Data

The European Commission has issued two binding decisions requiring Google to give rival AI assistants greater access to Android and share anonymized Google Search data with competing search providers under the Digital Markets Act. The measures are intended to give third-party services access to Android features on equal terms with Google's own AI services, including Gemini, and help rival search engines improve their products.



Under the Android decision, Google must allow third-party AI assistants to be activated through voice commands similar to "Hey Google" and perform actions within and across apps on a user's behalf. The Commission says users could, for example, ask a rival assistant to book a taxi, suggest replies in a messaging app, or answer questions about a recently visited place. Users are expected to begin benefiting from the changes in July 2027.


A separate decision requires Google to begin sharing anonymized search data with eligible third-party search providers in January 2027. AI chatbots that offer search functionality will also be eligible. The measures establish privacy and security safeguards, a formula for calculating the price of the data, and a process for providers seeking access.

Google warned that the requirements "risk undermining vital privacy and security guardrails for millions of Europeans" and said it would continue advocating for an approach that protects privacy and security while supporting the Digital Markets Act's market goals.

Similar DMA interoperability requirements are behind Apple's decision to delay Siri AI on iPhone and iPad in the EU. Apple has argued that complying would require giving rival assistants "nearly unlimited access to a user's device." The Commission rejected Apple's proposed Trusted System Agent, saying the company had not developed an interoperability solution that met EU privacy and security requirements.

Apple previously supported Google during the Android proceedings, warning that the proposed requirements could create "profound risks for user privacy, security, and safety."


The decisions are legally binding but remain subject to independent judicial review.