Broadcasters, Including Disney, Push for Gatekeeper Status on Android TV, Fire OS, Tizen
Walt Disney and peers urged EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera to designate Android TV (23% share), Amazon Fire OS (12%) and Samsung Tizen (24%) as gatekeepers under the Digital Markets Act. Broadcasters warn these platforms could restrict linking or redirection and favor their own ecosystems.
1. Broadcasters Demand Gatekeeper Designation
Walt Disney joined other major European broadcasters in urging antitrust chief Teresa Ribera to designate Android TV, Amazon Fire OS and Samsung Tizen operating systems as gatekeepers under the EU’s Digital Markets Act to ensure fair content distribution.
2. Market Share Increases
Data from a 2025 market study cited by the Association of Commercial Television shows Android TV’s share rose from 16% to 23%, Amazon Fire OS climbed from 5% to 12% and Samsung Tizen held 24% in 2024.
3. Concerns Over Platform Restrictions
Broadcasters warned these gatekeeper platforms may restrict linking or redirection between media applications and favor their own ecosystem, potentially limiting third-party content access on smart TVs and virtual assistants.
4. Commission to Assess Designations
The European Commission has confirmed receipt of the broadcasters’ letter and is currently evaluating whether to label the specified TV systems and virtual assistants as gatekeepers under the DMA.