EU Orders Google to Share Anonymized Search Data with Rivals

The European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) has ordered Google to share anonymized search data with rival search engines, as part of its efforts to promote competition in the digital market. According to the ruling, Google must provide anonymized and aggregated data that it uses for its own services, allowing third-party search providers to improve their offerings.

The EU Commission has also clarified how Google must give third parties access to features needed to enhance their services, including AI-powered chatbots with search capabilities. This will enable competitors to offer more innovative services, including privacy-focused alternatives, by January 2027.

Under the ruling, Google will be required to evaluate whether sharing data with a specific third party poses any cybersecurity or data protection risks before doing so. The EU Commission has also developed a formula for calculating the price of shared data, which it considers 'fair'. These measures aim to create a more level playing field and allow European users to choose from a wider range of AI services on Android devices.

The ruling also addresses interoperability issues with Google's Android operating system (OS), requiring that users can activate their preferred AI assistant via voice commands. This change is expected to begin in July 2027, enabling users to delegate tasks such as booking taxis or receiving suggestions for relevant replies in chat apps.