What the EU just changed, and what you have to do about it
EU policy is not short of coverage — it is short of coverage
that tells a founder, a developer or a student what actually lands on their
desk. This page tracks three lanes, reads the official sources, and for every
change says what moved, who it hits, what to do and by when. Every entry links
to the primary document so you never have to take my word for it.
Consultation on the European social security pass for labor mobility
What changed
The European Commission has opened a feedback period for a proposed regulation regarding a European social security pass to facilitate fair labor mobility.
Who is affected
Startups, scale-ups, SMEs, and self-employed individuals engaged in temporary cross-border work.
What to do
Submit your feedback on the proposal through the 'Have Your Say' portal to influence how social security data is handled for mobile workers.
10 Dec 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) in 7 weeks
Consultation on Net-Zero Industry Act reporting templates
What changed
The Commission is defining a standardized reporting template for Member States to monitor progress under the Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA). This template aims to ensure consistent data quality across the single market regarding net-zero industry developments.
Who is affected
Founders and companies operating within the net-zero technology sector whose data will be aggregated by Member States.
What to do
Submit feedback on the proposed reporting template via the 'Have Your Say' portal to ensure the data collection requirements are practical for industry players.
11 Nov 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) in 23 days
1 Mar 2027 Deadline for Member States to submit monitoring reports to the Commission in 4 months
Scientific Panel investigates frontier AI loss-of-control incidents
What changed
The Scientific Panel on AI and the AI Office have launched an investigation into recent loss-of-control incidents involving frontier models. They have developed a specific set of questions for the developers of the models involved in these incidents.
Who is affected
Companies that have developed frontier AI models involved in recent safety incidents.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for formal requests for information from the AI Office if your model is linked to a loss-of-control event.
New guidelines for Digital Services Act advertising repositories
What changed
The Commission is establishing guidelines for the advertising repositories required under Article 39 of the Digital Services Act. These rules aim to increase transparency and safety in the online space regarding how ads are displayed and tracked.
Who is affected
Very large online platforms (VLOPs) and very large online search engines (VLOSEs).
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the publication of the final communication to ensure compliance with the specific technical and transparency requirements for ad repositories.
7 Oct 2026 Start of the feedback window for the guidelines 12 days ago
New age limit for social media and video-sharing platforms
What changed
The EU KIDS Act proposal harmonizes the age for autonomous account creation at 15 years across the Union. It aims to protect minors from risky digital services and AI systems by removing diverging national rules.
Who is affected
Founders and developers of online social networking services and video-sharing platforms operating in the EU.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the final adoption of the proposal to update age-verification workflows and account creation logic for users under 15.
Public procurement rules revision for SMEs and startups
What changed
The European Commission has opened a feedback period for a proposed regulation to revise EU public procurement rules. This initiative aims to update the single market framework for how public bodies purchase goods and services.
Who is affected
SMEs, startups, social enterprises, and industry representatives involved in public sector contracts.
What to do
Submit your response to the open consultation to influence how procurement rules are simplified for smaller companies.
2 Dec 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) in 6 weeks
The European Commission has opened a feedback period for the revision of EU public procurement rules. This initiative aims to update the regulatory framework for the single market.
Who is affected
Startups, SMEs, and industry representatives interested in bidding for public contracts.
What to do
Submit your feedback on the proposed regulation via the 'Have Your Say' portal before the deadline.
12 Nov 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) in 24 days
The European Commission has opened a feedback period for a proposed regulation to revise EU rules on public procurement within the single market. This initiative aims to update how public bodies purchase goods and services from the private sector.
Who is affected
Founders, SMEs, and startups that sell or intend to sell products and services to public bodies in the EU.
What to do
Submit a response to the open consultation to influence how procurement rules are structured for small and innovative companies.
11 Nov 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) in 23 days
Consultation opens on new EU public procurement rules
What changed
The European Commission has opened a feedback window to revise EU rules on public procurement to improve the single market. This initiative aims to update how public contracts are awarded across the Union.
Who is affected
SMEs, start-ups, social enterprises, and industry representatives involved in public bidding.
What to do
Submit your feedback on the proposed regulation through the 'Have Your Say' portal to influence how procurement rules are structured for small businesses.
10 Nov 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) in 22 days
EASA has released the agenda for a forum focused on the practical implementation of U-space, VTOL certification, and BVLOS operations. The event serves as a direct feedback loop for industry to share implementation challenges and lessons learned with regulators.
Who is affected
Drone operators, eVTOL manufacturers, and U-space service providers.
What to do
Register for the forum to share direct experience with EASA regarding what is working or where challenges remain in the current regulatory framework for UAS and cross-border operations.
27 Oct 2026 Forum start date in Cologne and online in 8 days
Revision of the EU Chips Act for advanced manufacturing and AI
What changed
The European Commission has initiated a proposal to evaluate and revise the Chips Act to address remaining challenges in the semiconductor sector. The focus is on strengthening the EU's role in advanced manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence chips.
Who is affected
Founders and developers working in semiconductor design, AI hardware, and advanced manufacturing.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the upcoming legislative proposal (PROP_REG) following the evaluation of the feedback received during the consultation period.
Digital Networks Act proposal for cloud and AI connectivity
What changed
The Commission is proposing a new regulation to boost secure high-speed broadband and connectivity for cloud-based infrastructure and AI. This initiative aims to support the digital transition by improving the underlying network infrastructure.
Who is affected
Founders and developers building cloud-based services or AI applications that require high-speed broadband connectivity.
What to do
Nothing yet — monitor the legislative progress of the proposal (Ares(2025)4305261) as it moves through the regulatory process now that the initial feedback period has closed.
The European Commission is hosting a summit to mark the one-year adoption of the Apply AI Strategy, featuring sessions on the AI Act, robotics, and cybersecurity.
Who is affected
AI startups, industrial representatives, and developers working in strategic sectors like healthcare, mobility, and energy.
What to do
Register by November 13 to attend the summit in person or online to participate in sectoral deep dives and watch the top 10 finalists of the Apply AI Startup Award.
13 Nov 2026 Registration deadline for the Apply AI Summit in 25 days
ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox designated as VLOSE and VLOPs under DSA
What changed
The Commission designated ChatGPT as a Very Large Online Search Engine (VLOSE), and Reddit and Roblox as Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs). These services must now comply with the strictest rules under the Digital Services Act due to reaching over 45 million average monthly users in the EU.
Who is affected
Operators of ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox, and developers or businesses building on these platforms.
What to do
Nothing yet — these platforms have four months to comply with specific DSA obligations, including assessing and mitigating systemic risks and providing access to data for researchers.
Tender for study on user behavior and DSA features on marketplaces
What changed
The European Commission is seeking organizations to conduct an empirical study on how users interact with DSA-mandated features like notice and action mechanisms and trader information on Very Large Online Marketplaces.
Who is affected
Organizations with expertise in user experience, behavioral research, and data analysis.
What to do
Consult the tender documentation and submit a proposal for the 8-month contract via the dedicated platform.
Join the D-TECT Forum for drone and counter-drone technology
What changed
The European Commission has launched the Drone Tech for Countering Threats (D-TECT) Forum as an industrial coordination mechanism. It focuses on cooperation across the value chain, including AI-enabled navigation, sensing, and secure connectivity.
Who is affected
Companies, research organisations, universities, and industry associations active in the drone and counter-drone domains.
What to do
Submit an application to participate in the inaugural event and register your interest in joining future thematic Working Groups.
11 Nov 2026 Inaugural D-TECT Forum event in 23 days
AI Act enforcement and transparency requirements begin
What changed
New rules require chatbots to disclose they are AI and deepfakes to be labeled. AI-generated or altered content must now carry machine-readable marks for easier detection.
Who is affected
Developers and providers of interactive AI systems, chatbots, and tools that generate or alter media content.
What to do
Ensure chatbots inform users they are interacting with AI and implement machine-readable marking for all AI-generated content. Review the Code of Practice on transparency to operationalize these rules.
2 Aug 2026 Enforcement of AI Act and transparency rules begins 78 days ago
Consultation on AI strategy for cultural and creative sectors
What changed
The European Commission is seeking feedback to define a strategic vision for the use of artificial intelligence in cultural and creative industries. The strategy aims to address AI's role in creation, cultural diversity, and linguistic inclusion.
Who is affected
Developers and startups building AI tools for media, culture, and creative industries.
What to do
Submit a response to the open call for evidence to influence the strategic vision for AI in these sectors before the deadline.
11 Sep 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) 38 days ago
Digital Product Passport Registry and testing environment launched
What changed
The European Commission has launched the Digital Product Passport (DPP) Registry along with a dedicated testing environment. This system is designed to make product passports a practical reality for goods on the EU market.
Who is affected
Businesses and developers placing products on the EU market that require a Digital Product Passport.
What to do
Access the newly launched testing environment to begin integrating with the DPP Registry system.
New transparency guidelines for AI providers and deployers
What changed
The European Commission released guidelines to help organizations comply with AI Act transparency rules, ensuring users know when they interact with AI or AI-generated content. These rules aim to prevent deception and manipulation by requiring clear identification of AI systems.
Who is affected
Providers and deployers of AI systems that interact with people or generate/alter content.
What to do
Review the guidelines to ensure your AI systems clearly disclose AI interaction or content generation to users before the August deadline.
2 Aug 2026 Transparency obligations start to apply 78 days ago
AliExpress fined €550 million for Digital Services Act breaches
What changed
The European Commission issued a major fine against AliExpress for failing to assess and mitigate risks related to illegal, unsafe, or counterfeit products. The platform has been ordered to take corrective action to comply with its due diligence obligations.
Who is affected
Very large online platforms and e-commerce providers operating in the EU.
What to do
Ensure your platform has active systems to identify and remove illegal or unsafe products and perform regular risk assessments as required by the DSA.
New Digital Product Passport (DPP) information portal and requirements
What changed
The European Commission launched a central portal for the Digital Product Passport (DPP), which mandates digital access to product composition, circularity, and compliance data. Implementation begins with batteries before expanding to textiles, iron, steel, and construction products.
Who is affected
Economic operators, including manufacturers and developers, involved in the value chains of batteries, textiles, and construction products.
What to do
Visit the new DPP web page to access technical resources and guidance for your specific product sector. Prepare to integrate digital systems that provide product lifecycle information, such as environmental impact and end-of-life guidance.
X to provide researchers and civil society with data access under DSA
What changed
The European Commission approved X's action plan to comply with Digital Services Act transparency obligations. This plan specifically addresses how the platform will grant access to its data for monitoring systemic risks.
Who is affected
Researchers, civil society organizations, and developers monitoring platform impact and systemic risks.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the rollout of X's new data access tools and transparency interfaces to begin monitoring the platform's systemic risks and user impact.
Proposed EU-wide company form for innovative startups
What changed
The Commission proposed an optional 28th regime allowing companies to incorporate under a single set of harmonized EU rules instead of national laws. This includes digital-only registration, share transfers without notaries, and standardized instruments for convertible loans and stock options.
Who is affected
Founders and innovative companies looking to scale across multiple Member States without re-incorporating or maintaining separate national entities.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the upcoming legislative proposal and its subsequent adoption by the European Parliament and the Council.
Public consultation on the progress review of the Drone Strategy 2.0
What changed
The European Commission is reviewing the implementation and relevance of the 2022 Drone Strategy to account for technological developments in eVTOL and changing market conditions.
Who is affected
Drone manufacturers, operators, service providers, and financing institutions.
What to do
Complete the stakeholder survey to provide technical and market perspectives that will inform future policy development for the European drone sector.
6 Sep 2026 Deadline to submit responses to the consultation and stakeholder survey 43 days ago
Feedback open for Horizon Europe Joint Undertakings 2028-2034
What changed
The European Commission has opened a feedback period for the proposed regulation on European partnerships implemented as joint undertakings. This initiative defines the framework for research and innovation partnerships for the 2028-2034 period.
Who is affected
Intermediaries for start-ups, scale-ups, and SMEs, as well as industry associations and research representatives.
What to do
Submit feedback on the proposed regulation via the 'Have Your Say' portal to influence how future innovation partnerships are structured.
16 Oct 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) 3 days ago
New European Aviation Action Plan for GNSS interference mitigation
What changed
EASA and EUROCONTROL have developed the first version of the European Aviation Action Plan to address growing risks from GNSS jamming and spoofing. The plan defines specific mitigation actions, required technologies, and implementation timelines for the aviation sector.
Who is affected
Drone operators and manufacturers of unmanned aircraft systems relying on satellite navigation.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the rollout of the Action Plan's specific requirements regarding avionics upgrades, new positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) solutions, and standardized operational procedures.
New Cloud and AI Development Act proposal open for feedback
What changed
The EU is proposing a new regulation to triple data processing capacity and address infrastructure gaps in cloud and AI. The initiative focuses on sustainable data centres and increasing localized AI capacity within the EU.
Who is affected
Cloud infrastructure providers, AI developers, and data centre operators.
What to do
Submit a response to the open consultation to influence the development of the Act before the feedback window closes.
24 Sep 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) 25 days ago
Consultation opens for the Cloud and AI Development Act
What changed
The EU has proposed a new regulation to triple data processing capacity and address infrastructure gaps in cloud and AI services. The initiative focuses on sustainable capacity and ensuring infrastructure is located within the EU.
Who is affected
Cloud service providers, AI developers, and data center operators.
What to do
Submit feedback on the proposed regulation via the 'Have Your Say' portal to influence the development of EU cloud and AI infrastructure rules.
2 Jul 2026 Feedback period opens 109 days ago
21 Sep 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) 28 days ago
New Cloud and AI Development Act to expand EU data processing capacity
What changed
The EU is proposing a new regulation to address the infrastructure gap in cloud and AI capacity, aiming to triple data processing capacity within 5 to 7 years. The initiative focuses on sustainable data centres and ensuring infrastructure is located within the EU.
Who is affected
Cloud infrastructure providers, AI developers, and data centre operators located or operating in the EU.
What to do
Submit feedback on the proposal via the 'Have Your Say' portal during the open consultation window. Monitor the development of requirements regarding infrastructure location and sustainability standards.
2 Jul 2026 Feedback period opens 109 days ago
20 Sep 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) 29 days ago
Digital Networks Act proposal for cloud and AI infrastructure
What changed
The European Commission has opened a feedback period for a proposed regulation aimed at boosting secure high-speed broadband and cloud-based infrastructure for AI. This initiative focuses on the transition toward digital connectivity systems that support advanced computing.
Who is affected
Developers and companies building cloud-based infrastructure or Artificial Intelligence systems requiring high-speed connectivity.
What to do
Submit feedback on the proposal via the 'Have Your Say' portal to influence the regulatory framework for digital networks. Ensure your infrastructure requirements for AI and cloud services are represented before the consultation closes.
2 Jul 2026 Feedback period opens 109 days ago
7 Sep 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) 42 days ago
The European Commission has opened a feedback window for the evaluation and revision of the Chips Act. This initiative focuses on the digital economy, specifically targeting sectors like telecommunications, healthcare, energy, and defense.
Who is affected
Startups and SMEs active in the semiconductor industry, including emerging and scaling companies.
What to do
Submit feedback on the proposed regulation via the 'Have Your Say' portal to influence the revision of semiconductor rules.
2 Jul 2026 Feedback period opens 109 days ago
10 Sep 2026 Feedback closes (window open now) 39 days ago
New Easy Access Rules for Unmanned Aircraft Systems published
What changed
EASA has updated the Easy Access Rules to incorporate the SORA 2.5 package for risk assessments in the 'specific' category. The rules are now available in a machine-readable XML format and an improved online version with permalinks for each article.
Who is affected
Drone operators and manufacturers working within the 'open' and 'specific' categories.
What to do
Use the new eRules platform to access the latest SORA 2.5 guidelines and provide feedback via the Easy Access Rules contact form if needed.
29 Sep 2025 ED Decision 2025/018/R published introducing SORA 2.5 385 days ago
New EU strategy for AI in cultural and creative sectors
What changed
The European Commission is developing a strategic vision for the use of artificial intelligence specifically within the cultural and creative industries. This initiative focuses on AI's role in creation, cultural diversity, and linguistic inclusion.
Who is affected
Developers and startups building AI tools for media, culture, and creative content creation.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the publication of the strategy to align product development with the EU's vision for linguistic diversity and creative inclusion.
New EU corporate legal framework for innovative companies
What changed
The European Commission is developing a 28th regime to provide a single harmonized set of rules for innovative companies across the EU. This initiative creates a new EU corporate legal framework to simplify operations for businesses in the single market.
Who is affected
Founders and innovative companies seeking a unified legal structure to operate across EU member states.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the formal proposal of the regulation following the closure of the public consultation period.
New Legislative Framework revision to introduce Digital Product Passports
What changed
The EU is updating its product legislation blueprint to integrate digital solutions and circular economy goals. This revision introduces the Digital Product Passport as a requirement for product compliance and alignment across the single market.
Who is affected
Manufacturers and developers of physical products subject to EU product legislation and conformity assessment bodies.
What to do
Nothing yet — watch for the formal proposal to understand specific technical requirements for the Digital Product Passport and how it integrates with existing conformity assessments.
23 Jun 2026 Feedback window opens for the proposed regulation 118 days ago