EU Commission mandates Google to fully open Android for third-party AI assistants (heise.de)

• EU Commission publishes binding DMA specifications for Android AI assistant interoperability.
• Third-party AI assistants get equal access as Gemini from Android 18, including wake-word and screen context.
• Deadlines: admission program by Feb 2027, technical rollout by Aug 2027, parallel activation in Android 19 by 2028.

"The European Commission published binding specifications under the Digital Markets Act requiring Google to grant third-party AI assistants the same access rights as Gemini on Android. Starting with Android 18, these assistants will get features like wake-word activation, screen context awareness, and multi-step agentic functions. Timeline: Google must publish draft admission terms by Feb 1, 2027, start certification by May 1, 2027, and implement by Aug 1, 2027. Simultaneous wake-word detection is due in Android 19 by Aug 1, 2028. Google warns of security risks."