A View from Brussels: The Progress of the AI Act and Digital Markets Act
As spring blooms in Brussels, bringing vibrant flowers and a sense of renewal, the reality of European policymaking unfolds with significant advancements in digital regulation. The Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) are now actively shaping the landscape of technology in Europe.
Key Developments in the Digital Markets Act
Recent decisions by the EU competition team regarding the Digital Markets Act have marked an important milestone. Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, Teresa Ribera, highlighted that “gatekeepers” are adapting their business models, resulting in tangible benefits for European consumers. The European Commission not only designated these gatekeepers but also responded to ecosystem changes—for instance, the reclassification of Facebook Marketplace as a core platform due to its failure to meet the necessary criteria.
Ribera emphasized the Commission’s commitment to enforcing the DMA, including ongoing investigations into major tech players like Apple and Google. This enforcement is crucial for maintaining a competitive digital market and ensuring that the benefits of regulation reach consumers.
Implications of the Artificial Intelligence Act
In parallel, the Artificial Intelligence Act, which came into force in August 2024, has established ambitious timelines for the AI Office to deliver a comprehensive range of outputs. This includes up to 60 deliverables encompassing guidelines, methodologies, and standards addressing various aspects of AI implementation.
The act aims to provide concrete requirements for AI systems, particularly high-risk applications. Among the anticipated outputs is the General-Purpose AI Code of Practice, which is set to come into effect on August 2. This code is designed to translate the AI Act’s requirements into actionable steps for providers of general-purpose AI models.
However, the consultation process for this code has faced criticism, with stakeholders expressing concerns over the limited opportunities for substantive input and the perceived dilution of the tech community’s concerns during discussions.
Looking Ahead
The anticipated Code of Practice is expected to be finalized by May 2, providing a brief window for AI model providers to align with the new requirements. The importance of this regulation cannot be understated, as it aims to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed responsibly and transparently.
With these regulatory frameworks in place, Europe is poised to navigate the evolving landscape of digital technology with a focus on consumer protection, competitive markets, and ethical AI deployment. As policymakers continue to refine these initiatives, the impact on the technology sector and consumers alike will be closely monitored.
