The EU has been busy making some changes to its tech laws, and as developers and startup founders, it's super important to know how these updates impact our work.
Good news: some areas are getting a bit easier!
Bad news: new tech means new responsibilities.
1. GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) for Small Businesses is Getting Easier (Finally!)
Less Paperwork: If you're a small or mid-sized startup (especially under 750 employees), you might see a break on some of the heavy paperwork that GDPR usually demands. The EU wants to cut down on "red tape."
Focus on High-Risk Data: This doesn't mean you can ignore GDPR! You'll still need to be super careful with "high-risk" personal data (like health info or financial data). But for simpler data processing, the burden might be less.
What to do: Keep making privacy a core part of your design. But know that some of the stricter documentation rules might not apply to you if your data handling is low-risk.
2. AI Liability: Software is a "Product" Now!
No Dedicated AI Liability Law (for now): The EU scrapped its specific AI liability proposal. This means there isn't a new, separate law just for AI accidents.
Existing Product Rules Apply: Instead, our existing Product Liability Directive has been updated. The BIG change? Software, including AI systems, is now officially considered a "product."
What this means: If your AI or software causes harm because it's "defective," you could be held responsible – even if it wasn't your fault directly. This is called "strict liability." So, make sure your AI is robust, well-tested, and secure. Document everything!
AI Act Still Important: Don't forget the separate EU AI Act! If your AI is "high-risk" (e.g., in healthcare, hiring), you still have to follow strict rules for safety, transparency, and human oversight.
3. ePrivacy (The "Cookie Law"): Still Around!
No New Cookie Regulation: After years of talk, the EU has actually withdrawn its proposal for a new ePrivacy Regulation.
Old Rules Still Apply: This means the original ePrivacy Directive (the "Cookie Law") is still in force.
What this means: You still need proper cookie consent on your websites and apps. That means:
Clear banners: Tell users what cookies you use.
Real choice: Let them accept, reject, or customize. No pre-ticked boxes!
Easy opt-out: Make it simple to change their mind later.
Direct Marketing: If you send marketing emails or messages, you generally need consent for those too.
Bottom Line for Devs:
The message is clear: build safely and with privacy in mind from the start. While some of the administrative burden for smaller businesses is easing, your core responsibility for user data and product safety remains. If you're building with AI, understand its risks and document your development process thoroughly. And yes, those cookie banners aren't going away anytime soon!
Stay sharp, keep coding!
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