The European Commission issued two binding decisions on July 16 requiring Google to allow competing AI assistants equal access to Android system features and to share anonymized search data with rival services. The first decision mandates Google to make 11 Android features available to third-party AI services, enabling users to activate rival assistants using voice commands and perform tasks such as booking taxis and receiving suggested replies in messaging apps. Additionally, competing services will have on-device AI model access, background task execution, and screen context on par with Google’s own Gemini service.
Most alterations are required to be in place by August 1, 2027, with concurrent wake-word support—allowing multiple assistants to be triggered by different phrases—set for completion by August 2028. Google must also publish draft eligibility terms for sensitive functionalities by February 2027 and accept applications from rival developers starting May 2027.
The second decision obligates Google to provide access to specific categories of anonymized data to eligible third-party search engines and AI chatbots, effective January 2027. This comprises a multi-layered anonymization strategy, pricing framework, and an application vetting process to assess cybersecurity risks associated with applicants. The Commission stated these provisions aim to “rebalance the playing field” in the search data market.
In response, Sameer Samat, Google’s Android president, criticized the European Commission’s actions, asserting that the rules could threaten user privacy and security. He noted that users already have the ability to switch assistant services on their devices. The decisions are legally binding but do not include findings of non-compliance or impose fines at this stage; however, the Commission could levy penalties of up to 10 percent of Google’s global annual turnover for any future lack of compliance.
