Parliament sets the new AI timetable. Small firms get breathing room.
The full European Parliament backed simpler AI rules with fixed dates. Final talks with member states come next, but the direction is now clear.
By the Xuru Technologies team · 28 March 2026
Key takeaways
- The European Parliament voted on 26 March 2026 to simplify the AI Act as part of the Digital Omnibus.
- Listed high-risk systems would apply from 2 December 2027; AI in products covered by sector safety laws from 2 August 2028.
- The position adds support for small and mid-cap firms and more flexibility for already-regulated products.
Last week's committee vote has now been confirmed by the whole Parliament. Businesses get fixed dates rather than open-ended uncertainty.
What happened
Akin's AI tracker summarised the vote and the new application dates. The European Parliament Research Service published a briefing on the proposal, and Privacy Laws & Business covered the next steps.
What it means for businesses
- Clear dates help planning. Budget compliance work for 2027 and 2028.
- SME support. Smaller firms should benefit from lighter obligations.
- Transparency still matters now. Label AI chat and AI-generated content.
What to do in 2026
| Step | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Inventory AI tools | Know which uses might be high-risk. |
| Choose vendors carefully | Prefer providers with clear AI Act roadmaps. |
| Label AI interactions | Build trust with EU customers now. |
| Review accessibility too | The European Accessibility Act already applies. |
Frequently asked questions
When do the EU AI Act high-risk rules apply?Under Parliament's March 2026 position, listed high-risk systems from 2 December 2027 and AI in products under sector safety laws from 2 August 2028, subject to final agreement.
Under Parliament's March 2026 position, listed high-risk systems from 2 December 2027 and AI in products under sector safety laws from 2 August 2028, subject to final agreement.
Is the AI Act final?The Act is in force, but these simplification changes still need agreement between Parliament and the Council.
The Act is in force, but these simplification changes still need agreement between Parliament and the Council.
Does this affect non-EU businesses?Yes, if they offer AI systems or AI-powered services to people in the EU.
Yes, if they offer AI systems or AI-powered services to people in the EU.
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