EU Orders Google to Share Search Data with Rival Engines Under Digital Markets Act
The European Union's Digital Markets Act has ordered Google to share anonymized search data with rival search engines by January 2027. The ruling, which was announced on July 17, 2026, also requires Google to provide better interoperability for companies using the Google Android operating system.
According to the EU Commission, 'data sharing is crucial for the development and optimization of third-party search engines.' They believe this will create a more level playing field with Google Search and foster innovative search services, including privacy-focused alternatives.
The ruling outlines ways to anonymize data that have been developed in collaboration with privacy experts. It also includes measures to ensure that users can activate their preferred AI assistant via voice commands on their Android devices by July 2027.