Brussels : In a landmark move aimed at promoting fair competition in the digital economy, the European Commission (EC) has issued new legally binding directives requiring Google to open key Android operating system features and certain search data to competing companies under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The decision is expected to significantly reshape the competitive landscape for AI assistants, search engines, and mobile software developers across Europe by reducing Google’s control over critical Android services.
Third-Party AI Assistants to Receive Equal Access
Under the Commission’s ruling, Google must provide third-party AI assistants with the same access to essential Android system features that have historically been reserved for its own Gemini AI.
This means users will be able to select their preferred AI assistant as the default digital assistant on Android devices without sacrificing functionality or performance. Competing AI applications will gain access to advanced capabilities such as voice activation, system integrations, and other core operating system features currently associated with Gemini.
According to European regulators, the change is intended to eliminate barriers that have limited competition in the rapidly growing artificial intelligence market.
Android Users to Gain Greater Freedom
The Commission noted that many Android users have expressed frustration over the limited capabilities available to third-party AI assistants because of restricted access to Android’s core system functions.
Under the new rules, users will be able to activate their preferred AI assistant through voice commands in much the same way they currently use “Hey Google.” Third-party assistants will also be able to perform advanced tasks such as:
- Booking transportation services
- Providing smart reply suggestions in messaging apps
- Accessing recent location history (with user permission)
- Interacting with compatible applications across Android devices
These enhanced integrations will require users to explicitly grant permission for access to information such as location history, messages, and compatible applications installed on their devices.
The European Commission has instructed Google to implement these Android interoperability changes by July 2027.
Google Required to Share Search Data
In a separate directive, the Commission has ordered Google to provide qualified competitors—including search engines and AI chatbots with search capabilities—access to portions of its search data, excluding information that could identify individual users.
The objective is to help competitors improve their own search products and foster greater innovation within the European digital marketplace.
Before any data is shared, Google must implement a multi-layered privacy protection framework designed in collaboration with internal and independent privacy experts.
Beginning in January 2027, the company will also be required to:
- Conduct cybersecurity risk assessments
- Ensure robust privacy safeguards
- Establish a fair pricing mechanism for eligible organizations seeking access to the shared data
Major Impact on the European Tech Market
Industry analysts believe the Commission’s decisions represent one of the most significant regulatory actions taken under the Digital Markets Act since its implementation.
The measures are expected to encourage greater competition, strengthen opportunities for smaller technology companies and startups, and provide consumers with more choice in AI assistants and search services while maintaining strict privacy protections.
The European Commission says the rulings are designed to ensure that dominant digital platforms compete on fair and transparent terms, preventing market dominance from limiting innovation or consumer choice across the European Union.
