Google Offers Concessions to Avoid EU Antitrust Probe Over Fitbit Acquisition
Google attempts to clear regulatory hurdles for its $2.1 billion Fitbit purchase by promising not to use health data for advertising. EU regulators are set to make a final decision on the deal by July 20.
Google faces a potential EU antitrust investigation regarding its $2.1 billion acquisition of Fitbit unless it makes immediate concessions. The primary concern among regulators centers on user privacy, as critics worry that Google plans to mine the vast amount of health information collected by Fitbit's wearables to fuel its highly profitable advertising business.
To avoid a lengthy probe, Google reiterates its promise that it will never use Fitbit health and wellness data to sell targeted ads. A company spokesperson emphasizes that providing users with choice and control over their data remains a top priority, echoing earlier statements made by the head of hardware when the deal was first announced late last year.
Google argues that this acquisition actually increases competition in a wearable market currently dominated by Apple, Xiaomi, and Huawei. The tech giant has until July 13 to formally present its concessions to European authorities, who are scheduled to make a final decision on the fate of the deal by July 20.