8 hours ago
- The European Commission's DMA decision requires Google to open 11 Android features to third-party assistants on equal terms, including wake word detection via DSP, ambient sensor access, and screen automation.
- Google had blocked third-party wake word detection by restricting DSP access, forcing Home Assistant to use a CPU-based workaround causing higher battery drain (1% to 15%), permanent microphone indicator, and default assistant lock-in.
- The ruling mandates Google to provide DSP-based wake word detection, concurrent hotword support from multiple services, decoupling from default assistant roles, and complete documentation by Android 18 (2027) and Android 19 (2028).
- Google must implement 'equally effective' solutions with user consent controls, privacy indicators, and revocable permissions, while reporting progress monthly to the EC, reducing risks of malicious compliance.
- Home Assistant plans to leverage the ruling for battery-efficient wake word detection, concurrent multi-assistant support, sandboxed privacy, and access to Google apps like Gmail and Calendar for enhanced assistant capabilities.
- The decision enables users to control privacy through OS-enforced sandboxing and revocable permissions, shifting from trust-based to verified security models, despite Google's security concerns about broader access.