April 27, 2026, 8:35 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming the central interface on smartphones. It answers questions, can access applications, and supports daily life. With this growing role, the interaction between AI services and operating systems is coming into sharper focus.
The European Commission therefore launched a procedure in January 2026 specifically targeting Android. The goal is to expand usage options for alternative AI assistants. According to a report from “Bloomberg,” it is becoming clearer what requirements are planned so that competing offerings receive comparable access like Gemini.
Access to Functions Determines Relevance
The discussion involves not only technical details but also fundamental usage questions. The key factor is how deeply an AI assistant can integrate into the system. Functions such as opening apps or direct interaction with the operating system significantly enhance practical utility.
Services like ChatGPT or Claude could gain importance if they receive comparable capabilities. For everyday use, it’s not just the quality of the answers that matters, but especially access to central system functions.
Google Revamps Android and Focuses on Gemini
One reason for the EU’s intervention lies in current changes within the Android ecosystem. Google is gradually replacing the previous Google Assistant with Gemini. Starting in March 2026, this transition is set to accelerate significantly. This raises the question of what rights other providers have on the platform. The development increases the pressure to establish clear rules for competition.
Specific Guidelines for More Competition Planned
Therefore, the European Commission plans specific measures under the Digital Markets Act. According to “TheNextWeb,” not only general openings are being demanded. Instead, binding rules could be established on how competing services may access Android.
A few examples: setting other AI assistants as the default, enabling activation via voice, and allowing close integration with services like Gmail or Calendar. These measures aim to ensure that alternative providers can use their functions as effectively as Gemini.
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Google Sees Risks for Security and Privacy
Google partially rejects the criticism. The company emphasizes that Android is already designed to be open, and apps are freely available for installation via the Play Store. At the same time, the company warns of potential consequences of further opening. Comprehensive access by external services to sensitive system areas could, according to Google, weaken existing security mechanisms and increase risks for privacy and system security.
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Decision Expected by July 2026
A final decision is still pending. Preliminary results are expected first, which will serve as the basis for binding guidelines. In parallel, another procedure is underway regarding access to search data for competitors. This also involves data from AI-supported search queries and their dissemination. By July 27, 2026, the European Commission must make a final decision in both cases.