EU TARGETS GOOGLE'S AI CONTROL OVER ANDROID

EU watchdogs released proposals designed to reduce Google's control over artificial intelligence services on Android devices. The measures aim to create pathways for rival AI providers to compete within the Android ecosystem. The regulatory action reflects growing EU concern about tech giants leveraging dominant platforms to entrench their positions in emerging technologies. Google's integration of its AI services across Android—which powers over 70% of global smartphones—gives the company significant advantages in reaching users. The proposed changes would require Google to offer technical access and integration capabilities that allow competitors' AI services to function on equal footing with Google's own offerings. This mirrors previous EU interventions forcing tech platforms to interoperate with rival services. The proposals form part of the EU's broader Digital Markets Act enforcement, which classifies Google as a gatekeeper company subject to stricter competition rules. Regulators have already fined Google billions for abusing its market position in search and advertising. Google has faced similar scrutiny globally. The UK Competition and Markets Authority and US regulators have also examined how the company distributes AI services through its platforms. The company previously committed to giving Android users more choice in default services and AI assistants, though EU officials apparently view those measures as insufficient. The new proposals would formalize those choices into binding requirements. Implementation details remain unclear, including compliance timelines and technical specifications for interoperability. Google will have opportunity to respond to the proposals before final regulations take effect. The outcome could reshape how AI services reach smartphone users and determine whether Google maintains its current advantages in the fastest-growing segment of consumer technology.