EU Commission Orders Google to Share Anonymized Search Data with Rivals

The European Union Commission has ordered Google to share anonymized search data with rival search engines under the Digital Markets Act. This move aims to create a more level playing field for third-party search providers and foster innovative services, including privacy-focused alternatives.

The commission has clarified how Google must provide access to features needed to improve these services. Competitors of artificial intelligence (AI) services will be able to compete with Google's AI services like Gemini by having equal access to features on Google's Android devices starting from January 2027.

The ruling also requires Google to anonymize and share the same data it uses for its own services with eligible third-party search providers. This includes AI chatbots with search features, which will be allowed to use the shared data. The commission has developed a formula to calculate the price of the shared data in a 'fair' manner.

In addition, the measures aim to allow companies to offer European users a wider range of options for their AI services on Android and Search services. Users will have an option to activate their preferred AI assistant via voice commands starting from July 2027.