EU Says Android Should Be Able to Launch Any Rival AI With Wake Words

The European Commission has raised concerns that Alphabet has not provided fair access to key Android features for competing AI services under the Digital Markets Act.

Because Android is classified as a gatekeeper under the DMA, it is required to give third-party companies equal access to important phone and tablet functions.

Three Main Issues in Question

The Commission said its review focuses on three main issues. First, users should be able to launch AI services through custom wake words.

Second, AI services should be able to interact effectively with apps, understand user context, and complete tasks on a user’s behalf.

Third, competing AI tools should have access to the hardware and software resources needed to remain reliable and responsive.

The Commission has proposed changes and opened a public consultation process.

Gemini Gatekeeping

The Commission pointed to the long-press navigation bar shortcut on Android devices. This currently launches Gemini, provides contextual data, and can place information over the screen.

That shortcut is commonly linked to Google’s Circle to Search and is not equally available to third-party developers, according to the Commission.

The always-on wake word system is another focus area. It is currently linked to “Hey Google,” and regulators want Android to allow rival developers to add their own wake words.

Data Access Concerns

The Commission also said some app data stored on the device can only be accessed through AppSearch permissions.

According to regulators, that permission is only available to the default assistant and cannot currently be granted to third-party assistants.

The broader review also covers proactive suggestions, context-aware intelligence, and ambient data.

Google’s Response

In comments reported by Reuters, Alphabet’s senior competition counsel said the proposed intervention would remove user autonomy, require access to sensitive hardware and device permissions, increase costs, and weaken privacy and security protections for European users.

The move follows earlier action involving Apple, which previously limited NFC chip access on iPhone devices to Apple Pay.

That access was later opened to third-party services, although some concerns reportedly remain in Switzerland.