EU Orders Google to Share Anonymized Search Data with Rival Engines

The European Union's Digital Markets Act has ordered Google to share anonymized search data with rival search engines by January 2027. This move aims to create a more level playing field for third-party search services, including privacy-focused alternatives.

The EU Commission has clarified how Google must provide access to features and data needed to improve third-party services. Competitors of artificial intelligence (AI) services will have equal access to features on Google's Android devices by January 2027.

Google will be required to anonymize and share the same data it uses for its own services with eligible third-party search providers. The data sharing is crucial for the development and optimization of third-party search engines, according to the EU Commission.