Two-thirds of internet users prefer companies from Europe - Germans ditch US tech giants for European digital alternatives
A growing number of German mobile users are turning away from American tech companies. New data shows two-thirds now prefer EU-based providers for digital services. Another third plan to switch to German or European alternatives in the near future.
Currently, 33% of German mobile users already choose European providers for their data needs. Only 14% say the origin of these services does not matter to them. Many actively avoid US-based companies, reflecting a broader push for digital sovereignty.
Over the past five years, some EU alternatives have seen modest growth. Nextcloud's usage rose from 2% to 5% among cloud users, while Ecosia now holds 10–15% of the search engine market. Yet Google still dominates with over 90% of searches, and Apple's iOS maintains a 25–30% share. Meta's platforms, like Facebook and Instagram, remain at 70–80% adoption. Larger EU projects, such as Gaia-X or Peertube, have struggled to gain traction.
Germany's Federal Digital Minister, Karsten Wildberger, backs Europe's push for stronger telecoms independence. He warns that new regulations must encourage innovation, not stifle it. O2 CEO Santiago Argelich Hesse sees the trend as proof of rising demand for homegrown digital solutions. Wildberger also calls on Europe to lead in building its own tech infrastructure.
The shift highlights a clear preference for European digital services among German users. Yet the EU still relies heavily on US tech giants for most of its digital needs. The challenge remains to turn this demand into wider adoption of local alternatives.
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