Key facts
- ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox are now classified as very large online platforms or search engines under the EU's Digital Services Act.
- This designation follows their surpassing 45 million monthly users in the EU.
- New obligations include removing illegal content and protecting minors.
- ChatGPT is specifically designated as an online search engine.
- Non-compliance could result in fines of up to 6% of global annual revenue.
- The companies have until the end of December to meet these requirements.
The European Commission has placed ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox under its strictest regulatory regime for online services, designating them as Very Large Online Platforms or Search Engines under the Digital Services Act (DSA). This decision follows their declaration of exceeding 45 million monthly users within the European Union. The designation subjects these U.S.-based services to direct supervision by the Commission, requiring them to assess and mitigate systemic risks. These risks include potential negative effects on minors, election integrity, and public security, as well as impacts on fundamental rights. ChatGPT has been classified as an online search engine, while Reddit and Roblox are categorized as online platforms. The companies have a four-month period to implement these new obligations, with potential fines of up to six percent of their annual global revenue for non-compliance. OpenAI stated it is preparing for compliance, while Roblox expressed pride in being the first gaming platform to reach the EU milestone and looks forward to continued engagement with the Commission. The EU is also enforcing its AI Act and investigating AI services under competition rules.