European Union: European Commission opened consultation on Android interoperability specification proceedings under Digital Markets Act

On 27 April 2026, the European Commission opened a consultation on the preliminary findings in the specification proceedings under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) concerning Android interoperability until 13 May 2026. The specification proceedings were opened on 27 January 2026 under Article 6(7) of the DMA, which requires Alphabet to offer third-party developers free and effective interoperability with hardware and software features within the Android operating system. The preliminary findings set out draft measures that Alphabet must implement to ensure that third parties have effective access and interoperability with key capabilities of Android. The draft measures aim to ensure that competing AI services can interact with applications on users' Android devices and execute tasks, such as sending an email, ordering food, or sharing a photo. The draft measures would also allow competing AI services to be activated using a custom wake word. The final decision must be adopted within six months of the opening of the specification proceedings and will contain the final binding measures. The proceedings are without prejudice to the Commission's power to find non-compliance and impose fines or periodic penalty payments. Interested parties are invited to submit views on the effectiveness of the draft measures.