EU Urges Google to Open Data to Third-Party Search Providers

• The proposed measures would require Google to open its search data, including AI chatbot search functionalities, to third-party search engines under the Digital Markets Act
• Public comment period runs until May 1, 2026, with the European Commission's final decision scheduled for July 2026
• Google was formally charged with DMA violations in March 2025, and competitors have rejected Google's counter-proposals as inadequate

EU Urges Google to Open Data to Third-Party Search Providers

Key Developments:

The European Commission issued preliminary findings to Google on April 16, 2025, outlining compliance measures under the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA). The proposed requirements would mandate Google to share search data with third-party search engines, including data related to artificial intelligence chatbots with search capabilities.

Timeline and Process:

Interested parties have until May 1, 2025, to submit feedback on the proposed measures, with a final decision expected in July 2025. Google was previously charged in March 2025 with violating the Digital Markets Act.

Company Response:

Google has submitted its own proposals to address concerns from rivals and EU regulators. However, competitors have criticized these measures as insufficient to level the competitive playing field.

Market Implications:

This regulatory action targets Google's dominant position as the world's most popular search engine and could significantly impact the competitive landscape of the search market. The inclusion of AI chatbot search functionality data is particularly noteworthy, reflecting the growing importance of AI-powered search tools in the market.

If the EU enforces data-sharing requirements, it could create opportunities for smaller search providers and AI companies to compete more effectively with Google. The decision may also set precedent for how tech giants must share proprietary data under antitrust regulations, potentially affecting other major platforms designated as "gatekeepers" under the DMA.

The outcome could influence Google's parent company Alphabet's market position in Europe and may trigger similar regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions globally.