The EU is maintaining its schedule for implementing the AI Act, despite recent requests from companies like Alphabet and Meta, as well as some European businesses, to postpone the Act's rollout. The AI Act, designed to regulate AI systems based on risk, entered into force on August 2, 2024. Certain prohibitions related to 'unacceptable risk' AI systems took effect in February 2025.
Obligations for high-risk AI systems will be applicable by August 2027, giving companies time to prepare. The Act mandates specific obligations based on risk categories, with high-risk AI systems facing the strictest rules, including conformity assessments, transparency, and post-market surveillance. Non-compliance could lead to significant penalties, with fines reaching up to €35 million or 7% of global turnover. The AI Act is expected to be fully effective by 2027.
