Google faces EC call to share search data

The European Commission (EC) sent Google a series of proposals on providing third-party access to search data, including queries put through AI chatbots, to meet requirements set out in the Digital Markets Act . Under the preliminary measures issued by the regulator, Google would have to allow rivals access to specific information on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms. This includes data on search rankings, queries and clicks. The EC’s proposals cover rules related to the type of entities able to access information, the scope of what must be shared, means and frequency of distribution, pricing parameters and general governance including anonymising personal data. Its aim is to open the way for other companies to optimise their search services and better compete with Google. The proposals were sent to the tech giant within preliminary findings from what the authority referred to as “proceedings to assist Google” in meeting its DMA obligations for search products, which it announced in January. Suggested measures are the subject of a public consultation opening tomorrow (17 April) and closing on 1 May. The EC expects to come to a conclusion on the matter by 27 July. Unrestricted EC EVP for clean, just and competitive transition Teresa Ribera explained it set out “specifications we expect Google to follow to comply with its obligations” under the DMA, adding “data is a key input for online search and for developing new services, including AI”. “Access to this data should not be restricted in ways that could harm competition. In fast-moving markets, small changes can quickly have a big impact. We will not allow practices that risk closing markets or limiting choice.” The authority’s EVP for tech sovereignty, security and democracy Henna Virkkunen added it wanted to “hear from the market on the most effective ways for Google to share search data with competing online search engine providers” in the consultation. The post Google faces EC call to share search data appeared first on Mobile World Live .