Google Set to Join European AI Code of Conduct Initiative
Google is preparing to join the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Code of Conduct, signaling its intent to align with EU standards on responsible AI development and use. The move comes as Europe tightens oversight of emerging technologies.
Tl;dr
- EU introduces AI Act for phased regulation.
- Google signs voluntary code, Meta declines.
- Full compliance required by 2031.
A Shifting Landscape: Europe’s Bold AI Regulation
In recent years, the European Union has accelerated its push to regulate artificial intelligence. The adoption of the pioneering AI Act in 2024 has set the stage for a new era in tech oversight, aiming to position Europe at the forefront of global standards. Yet, the rollout of this legislation will be staggered over several years, reflecting both the complexity and ambition of the project.
Tech Giants Respond: Diverging Paths for Google and Meta
Reactions among major technology companies have been anything but uniform. Take Google, for instance. The company has chosen to sign on to the European voluntary code of conduct—a temporary framework designed to anticipate and align with the eventual legal requirements. While supportive of efforts to shape innovation responsibly, Google has nevertheless expressed concerns in an official blog post: « If the final version of the Code better aligns with Europe’s ambitions for innovation and economy – which we welcome having contributed to – we remain worried that the AI Act and this Code might slow down AI development and deployment in Europe ».
On the other hand, Meta has opted not to endorse this code at all. Its head of global public affairs, Joel Kaplan, was candid: « Europe is heading in the wrong direction on AI », viewing the regulation as « excessive overregulation ». This divergence lays bare not only differences in corporate strategy but also broader debates about balancing innovation and oversight.
Implementation Timeline and International Context
Looking at specifics, key obligations under the AI Act, such as those concerning General Purpose AI (GPAI), will begin applying from August 2025. Existing models have until August 2027 for full adaptation, with certain evaluation and oversight measures deferred until August 2031. Across the Atlantic, meanwhile, American regulators are only just beginning their deliberations—a contrast that underscores Brussels’ intent to set a benchmark ahead of global peers.
The Road Ahead for Digital Firms
For businesses navigating these changes, several main steps emerge:
- Migrating towards compliance based on their specific type of AI;
- Pursuing voluntary commitments through the code of conduct where possible;
- Undergoing periodic assessments and controls through to 2031.
The world is watching as Europe’s regulatory experiment unfolds—every move by a major player like Google or Meta now plays a significant role in shaping not just regional policy but potentially the very norms that will define tomorrow’s digital landscape.