Google has announced the launch of Data Transfer Essentials, a free service for customers in the European Union and the United Kingdom that enables multicloud data transfers at no additional cost. This move comes just as new provisions of the European Data Regulation (EU Data Act) go into effect, requiring cloud service providers to facilitate interoperability and remove barriers to switching platforms.
Google’s Move
Jeanette Manfra, Senior Director of Global Risks and Compliance at Google Cloud, explained in a corporate blog that the new solution aims to align with the principles of interoperability and freedom of choice established by European regulations.
“Although the Data Act allows providers to pass on costs to customers, Data Transfer Essentials is available today at no charge,” Manfra highlighted.
The service is designed for workloads processed in parallel across two or more cloud providers. “Qualified” multicloud traffic will be measured separately and will incur no cost, while other traffic will be billed at regular network rates.
Responses from Microsoft and AWS
Google has been proactive, but it’s not the only one. Microsoft announced they will offer “cost-effective” transfers for European customers working with interoperable multicloud environments. However, customers must submit a support request on Azure, which will be validated before approval.
Meanwhile, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has indicated that customers can request a reduced data transfer rate under the Data Act, though specific conditions have not been detailed extensively.
A Regulatory Framework That’s Changing the Game
The EU Data Act came into force in January 2024 with phased implementation. It requires cloud providers—both public and private—to eliminate technical, contractual, and commercial obstacles that hinder switching to competing services.
In its initial application, major U.S.-based hyperscalers (Google, AWS, and Microsoft) began removing controversial egress fees, although with some conditions and nuances.
Beyond legislation, cloud providers have also accelerated commitments toward European digital sovereignty. AWS announced in June 2025 the creation of AWS European Sovereign Cloud, a separate entity with independent governance and its own security operations within the EU. Microsoft and Google have reiterated that their sovereignty controls meet European requirements, despite ongoing concerns about the CLOUD Act in the U.S., which allows the U.S. government access to data managed by companies based there.
Competition and Sovereignty in the Cloud
Google’s announcement is seen as a move to ease regulatory concerns while also strengthening its competitive position against rivals. Eliminating multicloud transfer costs could serve as an incentive to attract customers seeking flexibility, portability, and resilience in a market increasingly sensitive to geopolitical tensions and sovereignty demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Google Data Transfer Essentials?
It’s a free service that allows data transfer between Google Cloud and other cloud providers without extra costs, provided it’s qualified multicloud traffic.
Why is Google launching this service now?
The move responds to the implementation of new provisions of the EU Data Act, which mandates providers to remove barriers to switching cloud services.
How does Google’s approach compare to Microsoft and AWS?
Google offers free transfers for qualified multicloud scenarios, while Microsoft offers “cost-based” transfers with prior validation, and AWS only provides reduced rates with limited details.
What impact does this have on European digital sovereignty?
These initiatives facilitate data portability and reduce reliance on a single provider, aligning with the EU’s goals of ensuring greater technological sovereignty and control over citizens’ and businesses’ data.
via: datacenterdynamics