Equal footing on Android
From July 2027, AI assistants from other providers can run at system level on Android: voice activation, default-assistant status and actions inside third-party apps, without needing their own hardware or a commercial deal with Google. For anyone building assistants or agents, a door that was structurally closed is now scheduled to open.
Search data at a regulated price
The second decision requires Google to license anonymized search data to third parties from January 2027 against regulated terms. That is relevant for privacy-friendly and vertical search products that until now could not match Google’s data advantage.
Binding, but without fines
Both decisions are so-called specification procedures: they clarify how existing DMA obligations must be implemented, so there are no fines attached, but the deadlines are legally binding. Google can still go to court.
What it means for founders
“All developers, large and small, are welcome to explore these new opportunities,” said Henna Virkkunen, the responsible Commissioner. Take her up on it: if your roadmap touches assistants, agents or search, watch the Q&A documents published with the decisions for the exact access conditions and application process.