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EU Designates ChatGPT as 'Very Large Search Engine' Under Digital Services Act
Technology Services · Internet Software/Services · yonhap_finance · 2026-08-31
The European Union has classified ChatGPT as a 'very large search engine,' subjecting it to strict oversight under the Digital Services Act.
What Happened
Regulatory Classification: The European Union has officially designated OpenAI's ChatGPT as a 'very large search engine,' bringing it under the scope of the Digital Services Act (DSA). This marks the first time an AI chatbot has been subjected to such stringent legal oversight, alongside platforms like Reddit and Roblox.
Compliance Requirements: ChatGPT must now adhere to enhanced EU safety regulations within a four-month timeframe. These obligations include mitigating systemic risks related to illegal content, protecting minors, and ensuring the safety of algorithmic systems and user well-being.
Enhanced Oversight: EU officials emphasized that given the significant influence of these platforms on society, they must be held to higher standards of accountability. The move is designed to ensure transparency and protect fundamental rights within the digital ecosystem.
Trade Tensions: The EU's aggressive regulatory stance toward U.S. tech giants has drawn criticism from Washington. This development raises the potential for increased trade friction between the EU and the U.S. as the administration threatens retaliatory measures.