EU moves to clarify Google’s DMA duties on Android and search data

The European Commission has launched two formal specification proceedings to clarify how Google must meet its obligations under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), particularly in relation to Android interoperability and access to search data.

The move is intended to provide Google with clearer guidance on compliance while ensuring fair competition in the digital market. According to the Commission, the proceedings are part of an ongoing regulatory dialogue aimed at aligning Google’s business practices with DMA requirements and safeguarding innovation across the ecosystem.

The first proceeding focuses on Article 6(7) of the DMA, which mandates free and effective interoperability for third-party developers with hardware and software features within a gatekeeper’s ecosystem. Regulators are reviewing technical functionalities currently used by Google’s own artificial intelligence services on Android to assess how equivalent access can be extended to competing AI developers. The objective is to ensure that independent providers can integrate their services with Android on terms comparable to those available to Google’s own offerings.

The second proceeding relates to Article 6(11) of the DMA, which requires Google to share certain data generated by Google Search with rival search engine providers. This review will define the categories of data covered by the obligation, establish how such data must be anonymised, and determine the conditions under which access should be granted on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory terms. The Commission will also examine whether AI-powered chatbots should qualify as recipients of this shared search data.

The Commission expects both proceedings to conclude within six months. Preliminary findings and proposed compliance measures will be communicated to Google within three months, with non-confidential versions made available for feedback from third parties. While the proceedings do not automatically imply a finding of non-compliance, the Commission has stated that it retains the authority to initiate formal enforcement action and impose penalties if necessary.

marketing 28-Jan-2026 DMA Google European Commission