Google can ward off EU antitrust probe into Fitbit deal with data pledge – Security – Finance

Google might be capable to stave off a complete-scale EU antitrust investigation into its planned US$2.one billion bid for exercise tracker maker Fitbit by pledging not to use Fitbit’s health and fitness data for its advertisements, individuals acquainted with the make a difference said.

The offer announced in November last 12 months permits Google, a device of Alphabet, to choose on Apple and Samsung in the exercise trackers and clever watches market, wherever other players include things like Huawei and Xiaomi.

The chief in the international wearables market was Apple with a 29.3 per cent market share in the initial quarter of 2020, followed by Xiaomi, Samsung and Huawei, according to data from market analysis company IDC.

Fitbit’s share was 3 per cent.

Still, the offer has drawn major criticism from privateness advocates on both equally sides of the Atlantic, concerned that Google might use Fitbit’s trove of health and fitness data to raise its dominance in on-line advertising and lookup.

Earlier this thirty day period, EU regulators questioned rival makers of wearable products, application builders and other on-line services suppliers as well as healthcare suppliers for their sights.

Google could allay opposition concerns by giving a binding pledge to EU opposition enforcers alongside the lines of its assure last 12 months not to use Fitbit’s health and fitness and wellness data for Google advertisements, the individuals said.

The European Fee, which is scheduled to determine on the offer by July 20, declined to comment. The deadline for Google to offer concessions is July thirteen.

Google said the offer is about products and not data.

“The wearables room is extremely crowded, and we believe the combination of Google’s and Fitbit’s hardware endeavours will raise opposition in the sector, benefiting individuals and making the subsequent era of products superior and extra affordable,” a spokesperson said.

“All over this course of action we have been obvious about our commitment not to use Fitbit health and fitness and wellness data for Google advertisements and our duty to give individuals with decision and management with their data,” she said.

The US Justice Division is also reviewing the offer although the Australian regulator said it could hurt opposition.