Google will sign EU's AI Code of Practice

Google has announced it will sign the European Union’s new AI Code of Practice. This non-binding code is designed to help companies comply with the EU's AI Act, which was passed in 2024. The AI Act's provisions will be implemented over several years, with some rules taking effect as late as August 2031. Google, while participating, expressed concern that the AI Act and Code risk slowing down AI development and deployment in Europe. They appreciate being able to provide comments on the evolving framework. This stance follows Meta's decision not to sign the Code of Practice. Meta's chief global affairs officer criticized the Code as an overreach and stated that Europe is on the wrong path with AI regulation. The EU's AI Act is a pioneering and comprehensive regulatory measure. In contrast, the United States is still in the early stages of developing its AI regulatory strategy. Rules for general-purpose AI models will become applicable on August 2, 2025.