EU forces Google to share search data, open Android to rival AI

The European Commission has issued binding rules under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) requiring Google to fundamentally alter how it operates in search and mobile platforms. Under the new mandate, Google must provide competing search firms with access to search data on transparent terms and at a reasonable fee. Crucially, the EU regulators want competing search engines to see metrics similar to what Google itself observes—a principle the Commission argues is essential for smaller players to mount a credible challenge to Google's search dominance. The rule also extends to AI chatbots, which will be treated as search services, meaning they too gain a right to access this data.

Google has vocalized strong opposition to the rules. Kent Walker, Google's president of global affairs, stated that the company had offered what it considered more measured solutions aligned with the DMA's goals, but that the Commission's chosen path "goes too far and will harm users." Walker specifically objected to two aspects: the requirement that AI assistants receive greater access to Android, and the mandate to share search data. On the privacy front, Walker argued that "Today's decisions risk undermining vital privacy and security guardrails for millions of Europeans." He contended that Google's current vetting process for AI tools on Android—in which phone makers play a key role—protects users, and that allowing non-Gemini AI platforms deeper integration could circumvent those safeguards. On search data, Google asserts that sharing data at scale poses risks to user privacy and to the company's trade secrets.

The Commission's response acknowledges some of Google's concerns. The mandate calls for Google to anonymize shared data using a multilayered approach, and EU regulators have signaled openness to amending the decision to ensure identifiable data is handled appropriately. However, the fundamental requirement stands: Google must comply with the data-sharing obligation and open Android to rival AI. Google has a transition period to work out specifics with regulators. Data sharing must begin by January 2027, and the Android platform must be updated to allow deeper AI app integration by July 2027.

The EU's action against Google reflects a long-standing regulatory concern: Google's dominance in search has allowed it to control which information and services users see, and to prioritize its own products. By requiring transparent data sharing, the Commission is attempting to level the playing field—smaller search engines and AI platforms would gain access to the metrics and insights that have historically given Google an insurmountable advantage. The EU regulators argue that Google's previous voluntary offers to share data did not go far enough to enable real competition.

Google's resistance centers on two claims: that data sharing will expose European users to privacy risks, and that opening Android to rival AI platforms will circumvent the security vetting that currently accompanies Gemini integration. The company has acknowledged that regulators are open to adjusting how identifiable data is anonymized and handled, suggesting some negotiation room remains. However, the core requirement—that Google share data and open Android—appears to be fixed, with tight deadlines (January 2027 for search data, July 2027 for Android) that leave little room for delay.