EU clears Google's $2.1B takeover of Fitbit, with conditions EU regulators cleared Google’s plan to buy fitness tracking device maker Fitbit after the company promised to silo off user data and not use it for advertisingLONDON -- The European Union on Thursday approved Google’s plan to buy fitness gadget maker Fitbit for $2.1 billion after it promised to restrict user data and ensure Android phones work with other wearable devices for at least 10 years. The EU was initially worried the deal would expand Google’s “data advantage” and raise barriers for rivals in the online ad industry. The Silicon Valley tech giant's commitments included a promise to silo off Fitbit user data from other Google data and not use it for advertising purposes. Google also vowed to continue giving outside health and fitness apps access to Fitbit data. “There is a serious risk that Google will exploit Fitbit users’ data, including sensitive health data, in several markets," said Director General Monique Goyens.

Source: ABC News December 17, 2020 13:39 UTC