EU Orders Google To Share Anonymized Search Data With Rivals
The European Union (EU) Commission has ordered Google to share anonymized search data with rival search engines under the Digital Markets Act. This decision, made on July 17, 2026, requires Google to provide better interoperability for companies using the Android operating system.
As part of this ruling, Google must give third parties access to features and data needed to improve their services. Competitors of artificial intelligence (AI) services will have equal access to features on Google's Android devices by January 2027.
The EU Commission aims to create a more level playing field with Google Search, fostering innovative search services that include privacy-focused alternatives. To achieve this, the commission outlines ways to anonymize data in collaboration with privacy experts and in line with the draft Joint Guidelines of the DMA and GDPR.