EU wants Google to open Android AI features to rivals
EU wants Google to open Android AI features to rivals, with DMA orders for AI interoperability and anonymised Search data sharing across the EU from 2027.
Change is coming to Android in Europe. In a landmark move under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the European Commission has ordered Google to open key Android AI capabilities to competing assistants and share certain Google Search data with eligible rivals.
The goal is to place third‑party services on the same footing as Google’s Gemini and to stimulate fairer competition in search.
The decision aims to create a more level playing field, allowing third-party AI assistants to compete more directly with Google's Gemini while giving users greater choice over the AI services they use on Android devices.
Rival AI assistants will gain deeper Android access
Under the Commission's binding decision, Google will be required to provide competing AI assistants with access to several system-level Android features that have traditionally been reserved for its own services.
This includes support for voice activation similar to "Hey Google", the ability to complete tasks across multiple apps on a user's behalf and access to contextual information, such as recently visited places, to deliver more relevant responses.
The Commission said these changes must be implemented without compromising device security, user privacy or system integrity.
Google must share Search data with competitors
The ruling also requires Google to make anonymised Search data available to eligible competitors, including AI-powered search services and chatbots. According to the Commission, the shared data will be protected through multiple layers of anonymisation and made available through a transparent access framework with fair pricing.
Risk assessments will be carried out before any data is shared, and the anonymisation process can be updated as technology and market conditions evolve. The objective is to help competing AI services improve the quality and relevance of their search experiences without giving Google an unfair advantage.
Google raises privacy and security concerns
Google has criticised the decision, arguing that broader interoperability could allow third-party applications to request sensitive permissions without the safeguards normally enforced by device manufacturers.
The company has also expressed concerns that mandatory data sharing could expose private user searches or reveal commercially sensitive information if protections are insufficient. It is important to note that the European Commission maintains that its framework includes robust safeguards designed to minimise these risks while promoting fair competition.
Rollout begins in 2027
The Commission's decisions are legally binding, although they remain subject to judicial review. Under the current timeline, Google must begin sharing eligible Search data from January 2027. The Android interoperability changes, including expanded AI assistant access, are expected to reach users from July 2027.
For Android users, the changes could make it possible to choose a preferred AI assistant that works as seamlessly as Gemini, whether for booking a taxi, sending messages or completing other everyday tasks.
A major shift for the Android ecosystem
The ruling marks one of the most significant regulatory interventions in the AI era. By requiring Google to give rivals deeper access to Android and Search, the European Union hopes to encourage greater innovation and competition while maintaining strong privacy and security standards.
If successfully implemented, the decision could redefine how AI assistants compete on Android, giving users more choice and developers a fairer opportunity to build next-generation AI experiences.