EU Orders Google to Share Anonymized Search Data with Rivals
The European Union's Digital Markets Act has ordered Google to share anonymized search data with rival search engines under the act. This decision aims to create a more level playing field for third-party search services, including privacy-focused alternatives.
The EU Commission clarified that Google must give third parties access to features and data needed to improve their services, starting in January 2027. AI chatbots with search features are eligible for the shared data, and Google will be required to anonymize it in line with the draft Joint Guidelines of the DMA and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The ruling also requires Google to evaluate whether sharing data with a specific third party poses serious cybersecurity and data protection risks. A 'fair' formula for calculating the price of shared data has been laid out, aiming to allow companies to offer European users more options when it comes to AI services on Android and Search services.