EU orders Google to share search data with rivals starting in 2027
Qualifying AI chatbots can also get the same search data Google uses to improve its services, subject to privacy safeguards.
The European Commission ordered Google to share anonymized search data with rival search engines under the Digital Markets Act, specifying how the company must give third parties access to data used to improve search services.
The legally binding measures clarify how Google must comply with the DMA’s search data-sharing rule. Google must begin sharing search data with eligible third-party search providers in January 2027.
Google must share search data. The Commission said Google’s current data-sharing program has been ineffective and outlined how the company must provide search data to rival search engines.
- Google must share the same search data it uses to optimize its own search services, subject to anonymization.
- The goal is to help rivals develop and improve search products, including privacy-focused alternatives.
AI search tools qualify. The Commission said AI chatbots that offer search functionality are eligible to receive shared data. Google’s data-sharing obligation applies to qualifying AI search services, not just traditional search engines.
Why we care. Sharing Google’s search data could strengthen competing search and AI products, but the practical impact may be limited. Google alternatives already exist. The bigger challenge is changing users’ search habits.
Data safeguards. The Commission said the data must be anonymized through a multilayer process developed with privacy experts.
- Google may assess whether sharing data with a specific third party would create serious cybersecurity or data protection risks before providing access.
- The measures also require a fair pricing formula and a transparent access process.
Android AI changes. The Commission also ordered Google to give rival AI assistants better access to Android features available to its own AI services, including Gemini.
- EU users will be able to activate their preferred AI assistants by voice and use them to perform actions in apps.
- Those Android changes are expected to begin in July 2027.
The decision doesn’t impose fines. Under the DMA, specification proceedings clarify how a gatekeeper must comply with an obligation rather than determine whether it violated the law.
- The search data measures could be amended based on market developments, independent third-party evaluations, and future privacy assessments, the Commission said.
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