EU Antitrust Regulators Scrutinize Google-Samsung Chatbot Deal for Potential Rival Hindrance

The questionnaire issued by the regulators inquires whether the pre-installation of Gemini Nano, either through the device or the cloud, restricts the number of other generative AI systems that can be pre-installed on the same device.

Brussels: EU antitrust regulators are probing whether Google’s long-term generative artificial intelligence (AI) agreement with Samsung might hinder competing chatbots on Samsung smartphones, according to an EU document reviewed by the international news agency Reuters.

The European Commission announced last month its intention to request information to better comprehend the implications of the deal, which involves Samsung embedding Google’s Gemini Nano AI in its upcoming Galaxy S24 series smartphones. This investigation could pave the way for the EU antitrust authority to take action against the companies if any anti-competitive practices are identified.

The questionnaire issued by the regulators inquires whether the pre-installation of Gemini Nano, either through the device or the cloud, restricts the number of other generative AI systems that can be pre-installed on the same device. Additionally, the regulators are interested in understanding if the pre-installation of Gemini Nano hampers interoperability between other chatbots and apps pre-installed on Samsung smartphones.

Also Read | Egypt to Cease Summer Power Cuts Starting Sunday, PM Announces

Industry participants were also asked if they had attempted but failed to secure agreements with device manufacturers to pre-install their chatbots, along with detailed reasons for their rejections. Respondents have until this week to complete and submit the eight-page questionnaire.

Recent News

US Prosecutors to Seek Death Penalty for Luigi Mangione, Bondi Confirms

New York: U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi has directed federal prosecutors to pursue the death penalty against Luigi Mangione, who stands accused of fatally...

Xi Urges Stronger China-India Ties in ‘Dragon-Elephant Tango’

Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged closer cooperation between China and India, describing their relationship as a "Dragon-Elephant tango". In a message to...

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited Announces USFDA Final Approval for Pantoprazole Sodium for Injection, 40 mg/vial (Single-Dose Vial)

Mumbai: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited (Alembic) announced that it has received Final Approval from the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) for its Abbreviated New Drug...

Bharti AXA Life Insurance appoints Prerak Parmar as Chief Growth Officer

Kolkata: Bharti AXA Life continues to strengthen its leadership team by hiring seasoned professionals with deep domain expertise and a strong track record in driving...