EU Gives Google Binding Instructions to Open Android, Search Engine Data to AI Rivals
By Edith Hancock
The European Union gave Alphabet's Google binding instructions to open up its Android operating system and search engine data to AI services that compete with its own tools such as Gemini.
The European Commission said on Thursday that rival AI assistants have restricted access to key features of Google's Android operating system and aren't able to compete equally with the tech group's own services.
The EU executive said that users should be able to activate their AI assistant of choice on Android devices via voice command in the same way they can activate Google's assistant, and use them to perform tasks such as booking taxis. It also said the measures it has issued "incorporate robust safeguards to ensure that the privacy of users, device integrity and security are protected."
Kent Walker, Google's president of global affairs, said in a statement that the commission's decisions risk undermining privacy and security guardrails for Europeans.
Officials also told Google to share some search data with competing search engines, including AI chatbots that have search features.
It follows initial findings previously sent to Google earlier this year. Thursday's decision gives the company binding instructions.
Write to Edith Hancock at edith.hancock@wsj.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
July 16, 2026 08:14 ET (12:14 GMT)
Copyright (c) 2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.The articles, information, and content displayed on this webpage may include materials prepared and provided by third parties. Such third-party content is offered for informational purposes only and is not endorsed, reviewed, or verified by Morningstar.
Morningstar makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or reliability of any third-party content displayed on this site. The views and opinions expressed in third-party content are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Morningstar, its affiliates, or employees.
Morningstar is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or delays in this content, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Users are advised to exercise their own judgment and seek independent financial advice before making any decisions based on such content. The third-party providers of this content are not affiliated with Morningstar, and their inclusion on this site does not imply any form of partnership, agency, or endorsement.
Popular
5 Stocks to Sell for Tax-Loss Harvesting
The Smartest Moves for Bond Investors Today, and What to Do When You Have Too Many Investments
33 Undervalued Stocks to Buy Before the Market Shifts Again
Ask the Analyst: What Is the Best Source for Low-Risk Tax-Free Income?
United States