Google’s bid to win EU approval for its $2.1 billion purchase of Fitbit faces headwinds as rivals and customers argue concessions to EU antitrust regulators do not go far enough, two people familiar with the matter said on Friday.
Alphabet’s Google last week offered to restrict the use of Fitbit data for Google ads and to monitor the process closely.
It also offered to make it easier for rival makers of wearables to connect to the Android platform by offering them access to Android software (API) and said third parties would continue to have access to Fitbit users’ data with their consent.
Google to pay publishers $1 billion over three years for their news
The European Commission is now seeking feedback from rivals and customers before deciding whether to accept the offer or demand more. Other sources have said the new concessions are likely to help Google secure EU clearance.
Some rivals and customers, however, plan to tell the EU competition enforcer to ask for more, the people said.
“The definition of wearable API is too narrow,” said one of the people, who said Google should broaden the scope to take into account new functionalities that come into the market in the future.
New brain-computer interface converts thoughts to images
Google’s 10-year data pledge also drew fire from its critics in advertising.
“Why would you limit the data separation remedy to 10 years? Bad idea. Google is making long bets. Ten years is tomorrow,” the second person said.
Respondents have until next week to provide feedback. The Commission is scheduled to decide on the deal by Dec. 23, although a ruling could come earlier.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ