Apple has recently warned the European Union, publicly opposing a proposal requiring Google's Android system to open up underlying permissions for competing AI services. Apple argues that this move would seriously threaten user privacy, security, and device integrity.

Previously, the European Commission preliminarily found that Google gave its own Gemini system system-level priority in Android, limiting third-party AI from accessing screen context and local data.

The EU's "Breaking Down Walls" Requirements

The EU aims to break Gemini's monopoly through several adjustments, including:

  • System-wide Activation: Allowing third-party AI tools to activate globally via wake words or physical buttons.

  • Reading Screen Context: After user authorization, third-party AI should be able to read current screen content to provide recommendations.

  • Inter-app Control: Exploring ways for other AI services to operate installed apps and system functions on behalf of users, similar to Gemini.

Apple's Defense Logic

Although Apple and Google are fierce rivals in the smartphone market, they have stood on the same side when facing regulatory pressure. In its submission to the EU, Apple pointed out that the EU's assessment was insufficient, as it reached a preliminary conclusion in less than three months, which is replacing engineers' judgments with administrative decisions.

Apple emphasized that AI system capabilities and threat vectors remain unpredictable, and forcing open access to underlying permissions could lead to reduced device performance and leave backdoors for hacker attacks or privacy leaks.

Big Techs Unite Against Regulation

This defense reflects the shared anxiety of Silicon Valley giants in the face of the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA). Google has previously stated that the proposed measures would weaken key protections for European users.

As AI becomes the new core of mobile operating systems, regulators are trying to intervene before the technology is fully mature. Apple and Google's "alliance" aims to maintain the closed nature of their ecosystems and control, avoiding the loss of core competitiveness due to forced openness.