The European Commission has ordered Google to provide competitors with access to its search data under the Digital Markets Act. The preliminary findings, issued on Thursday, require Google to share rankings, user queries, clicks, and page views on fair and reasonable terms. This move aims to foster competition in the search market and support emerging AI services.

"Data is a key input for online search and for developing new services, including AI," said Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition. "Access to this data should not be restricted in ways that could harm competition." The proposal, published on April 16, 2026, outlines six key areas, including eligibility for data access, privacy safeguards, and pricing mechanisms.

Google has raised privacy concerns in response, signaling potential resistance to the mandate. The decision could reshape the digital landscape, particularly for AI-driven search innovations.