Why did the EU require Google to open Android to competing AI services?

The decision aligns with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to prevent monopolistic practices by major tech firms. Google must ensure equal opportunities for third-party AI services to drive innovation and competition.

What data must Google share with competitors?

Google is required to provide search data, including information for algorithm optimization, to third-party search engines and AI chatbots with search capabilities.

When will the new rules take effect?

Google must begin sharing data with search providers by January 2027, with Android changes implemented by July 2027.

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Artificial intelligence

EU Mandates Google to Open Android for Competing AI and Share Search Data

July 18, 2026

Photo: CNET

Quick answer

The European Commission has mandated Google to grant competitors access to Android's AI features and search data under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to promote fair competition.

The European Commission has ordered Google to grant third-party AI developers equal access to Android's artificial intelligence capabilities and share data from its search engine. The decision aims to foster a competitive environment in AI assistants and search technologies.

Under the ruling, Google must provide third-party AI services with the same functionalities as its own solutions, including Gemini. For instance, competing assistants will be able to activate via voice commands and perform tasks such as ordering a taxi. Additionally, the company must share search data with competitors to optimize their algorithms.

Google has expressed concerns over the new requirements, warning they could weaken user privacy protections. The company proposed alternatives, such as data anonymization, but the European Commission rejected these proposals. Similar restrictions previously affected Apple, which disabled new Siri features for EU users due to DMA compliance issues.

Changes must be implemented by mid-2027. According to the European Commission, about 60% of smartphone users in the EU rely on Android, making the decision particularly significant for the market.

Common questions

Why did the EU require Google to open Android to competing AI services?: The decision aligns with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to prevent monopolistic practices by major tech firms. Google must ensure equal opportunities for third-party AI services to drive innovation and competition.
What data must Google share with competitors?: Google is required to provide search data, including information for algorithm optimization, to third-party search engines and AI chatbots with search capabilities.
When will the new rules take effect?: Google must begin sharing data with search providers by January 2027, with Android changes implemented by July 2027.

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