European Union: European Commission opened specification proceeding to assist Google to comply with interoperability obligations under Digital Markets Act

On 26 January 2026, the European Commission opened a specification proceeding into Google over its alleged failure to comply with interoperability obligations under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The proceeding addresses Article 6(7) of the DMA, which requires Google to offer third-party developers free and effective interoperability with hardware and software features within the Android operating system. The Commission intends to define how Google should provide third-party AI service providers with access to features equivalent to those available to its own services, aiming to foster competition and innovation in the AI sector on mobile devices. The Commission plans to conclude the proceeding within 6 months of its opening. Within the first 3 months, the Commission will communicate preliminary findings and draft measures to Google. These findings will be published in non-confidential summaries to allow for third-party feedback. While the proceeding does not pre-judge compliance, the Commission maintains the authority to find non-compliance and impose fines or periodic penalty payments should the gatekeeper fail to adhere to its legal obligations.