Startups Leveraged Platform Data Under Digital Markets Act
Over 40 startups have utilized access to gatekeeper platform data to create new digital services.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Startups
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European Commission officials reported that more than 40 startups successfully used data generated on gatekeeper platforms to develop new offerings. This development highlights the initial impact of the Digital Markets Act on data accessibility.
Why it matters
The Digital Markets Act aims to foster competition by ensuring smaller firms can access data held by dominant digital gatekeepers. This shift is intended to lower barriers for new companies looking to compete with established tech giants.
More than 40 startups have capitalized on new data access provisions to build their services. Gatekeepers are now required to integrate compliance into their development cycles over the next three years.
The players
European Commission
This is the executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and upholding the bloc's treaties.
The details
Startups have gained competitive advantages by utilizing easier access to data generated by large digital platforms within the European Union. Regulators are monitoring these developments to ensure that gatekeepers continue to adhere to the requirements of the Digital Markets Act.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: European Commission officials reported the startup data access statistics.
The next three years: Gatekeepers are required to build compliance into their development cycles.
Market Landscape
This activity follows the regulatory framework set by the Digital Markets Act to diminish the data advantage held by dominant gatekeepers. These developments suggest a gradual restructuring of the competitive environment as new firms exploit previously restricted information.
Consumers may see more diverse service options as smaller companies utilize newly available data to innovate. The push for compliance may also lead to changes in how major platforms interact with third-party developers, potentially altering user privacy and app functionality.
The takeaway
The implementation of the Digital Markets Act is showing early signs of success in unlocking data for smaller tech innovators. Developers should monitor how these compliance cycles evolve over the next three years to anticipate future platform functionality changes.
Further reading
For more on the changing environment for new businesses, see the latest updates in Startups.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mlex.
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