EU Questions Google’s Fitbit Acquisition

Fitbit versa fitness tracker and smartwatch on a Caucasian male wrist. Used for fitness and health tracking. Close-up
B&T Magazine
By B&T Magazine



Google is facing further roadblocks in its proposed takeover of Fitbit.

Google announced the planned acquisition of the fitness-tracking watch company in November of last year.

Despite the tech giant stating it would not use Fitbit data for ads, the takeover has already been flagged by Australia’s consumer watchdog.

And now the European Union is examing whether the takeover will negatively impact competition.

EU regulators have sent Google and Fitbit’s competitors a series of questionnaires asking if the proposed deal will disadvantage them, reports the Financial Times.

Consumer groups have also shared a joint statement overnight, warning of potential consequences.

“Regulators must assume that Google will in practice utilise the entirety of Fitbit’s currently independent unique, highly sensitive data set in combination with its own, particularly as this could increase its profits, or they must impose strict and enforceable limitations on data use,” they said, in a joint statement.

Google has responded to the concerns.

“Throughout this process, we have been clear about our commitment not to use Fitbit health and wellness data for Google ads and our responsibility to provide people with choice and control with their data,” the company said in a statement.

“Similar to our other products, with wearables, we will be transparent about the data we collect and why. And we do not sell personal information to anyone.”

The EU has until July 20 to make a call on the takeover.

 




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