Apple backs Google after EU orders Android be opened up to AI rivals

Apple has publicly backed Google in its opposition to European Union proposals that would require Android to grant third-party AI services full access, citing concerns over user privacy and security. This support aligns Apple with Google’s stance in a regulatory dispute that could reshape mobile ecosystem rules in Europe.

The European Commission has been pushing for measures under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) that would compel Android to provide external AI assistants with the same access as Google’s own technology. This includes sharing anonymized data such as search queries, clicks, and views to foster competition among AI providers. The draft rules, released in April, have faced criticism from Google and Apple, which argue that such access would threaten user privacy and security.

In its response to the EU’s consultation on the draft rules, Apple echoed Google’s concerns, warning that full access for rival AI services could undermine European users’ privacy and device security. Apple stated that AI systems are still evolving and unpredictable, and that opening up Android could enable interactions with apps used for emails, food orders, and photo sharing, potentially exposing users to risks. Both companies questioned the EU’s brief timeline for drafting the regulations, suggesting it undermines thorough assessment and could lead to harmful consequences.

Why It Matters

This development is significant because it reveals a rare alignment between Apple and Google on a regulatory issue that could impact the future of mobile ecosystems in Europe. Their opposition to the EU’s proposed rules underscores concerns over privacy, security, and device integrity, which are central to their business models. The dispute also highlights the broader tension between tech giants and regulators seeking to promote competition while safeguarding user rights.

Background

The EU has been increasingly active in regulating tech companies, with the Digital Markets Act aiming to curb monopolistic practices and foster innovation. In January, the European Commission indicated it would require Google to open access to Android for third-party AI services, including sharing anonymized data. Google and Apple have previously opposed aspects of the DMA, arguing it threatens privacy and security. The current dispute centers on the draft rules, which both companies believe are rushed and could have negative consequences for users and the industry.

“The measures would undermine critical privacy and security for European users and unnecessarily increase costs.”

— Google’s counsel (unnamed)

“The draft measures raise urgent and serious concerns. If confirmed, they would create profound risks for user privacy, security, and safety as well as device integrity and performance.”

— Apple

“The EU is substituting judgments made by Google’s engineers for its own judgment based on less than three months of work.”

— Apple

What Remains Unclear

It remains unclear whether the EU will modify its draft rules in response to industry feedback or proceed with the current proposals. The exact impact of the proposed regulations on user privacy, security, and device performance is also still being evaluated, and legal or political challenges could alter the course of this regulatory effort.

What’s Next

The European Commission is expected to review feedback from Google, Apple, and other stakeholders before finalizing the rules. Further discussions or legal challenges may ensue, and the regulatory landscape could shift as the EU balances competition promotion with privacy and security safeguards.

Key Questions

Why does the EU want to open up Android to third-party AI services?

The EU aims to promote competition and innovation in AI by ensuring that third-party providers have equal access to Android’s capabilities, preventing monopolistic control by major tech firms.

What are the main concerns Apple and Google have about these regulations?

They argue that full access could compromise user privacy, security, and device integrity, especially given the evolving and unpredictable nature of AI systems.

Could these regulations affect how users interact with AI on their devices?

Yes, if implemented, the rules could enable more AI services to operate on Android, potentially changing user experiences but also raising privacy and security considerations.

What is the current status of the EU’s AI access proposals?

The draft rules are under review, with industry feedback being considered. It is not yet clear whether the EU will finalize or modify the proposals.