The European Union has issued a directive requiring Google to expand access to its Android platform and search services, a move designed to enhance competition within the digital market. This development mandates that Google make 11 key Android features accessible to developers of competing artificial intelligence technologies. This will enable rival AI assistants to utilize important device functions and respond to voice commands in a manner akin to Google’s own Gemini assistant. Implementation of these changes is anticipated with a forthcoming Android update, slated for release in July 2027.
Additionally, the new regulations stipulate that Google must share certain anonymized search data with AI companies and other search service competitors. This initiative aims to empower these entities to refine and enhance their search-based products. Prior to sharing such data, Google retains the right to evaluate whether the requesting companies meet necessary cybersecurity and data protection criteria. The data-sharing requirement is set to commence in January of the following year.
The European Commission highlighted that these measures are designed to uphold user privacy and device security while simultaneously fostering increased competition in the realms of artificial intelligence and online search. This move is part of the broader Digital Markets Act, an EU initiative focused on limiting the influence of major technology firms and expanding consumer options in digital services.
Google has expressed criticism of the EU’s decision, voicing concerns that the mandated changes might compromise user privacy and security protections. The company argues that its own proposals had aimed to address the regulatory concerns in a manner that would not undermine existing safeguards.