More time for high-risk AI. Not a free pass.
Europe is easing the AI Act's timetable, but transparency rules and bans still apply. Use the extra time to build good habits, not to delay them.
By the Xuru Technologies team · 20 March 2026
Key takeaways
- The LIBE and IMCO committees voted 101 to 9 on 18 March 2026 for a Digital Omnibus position on the AI Act.
- Rules for certain high-risk AI systems would move to 2 December 2027.
- A new prohibition would cover AI systems that generate non-consensual sexual and intimate content.
- A full Parliament vote was expected on 26 March, followed by talks with member states.
For businesses selling into Europe, the AI Act has felt like a moving target. This vote brings more certainty about dates, while keeping core protections in place.
What happened
Freevacy reported the committee vote and its main changes, including allowing providers to process personal data to detect and correct bias, with safeguards. DQS explained the "stop-the-clock" approach to high-risk obligations.
What it means for businesses
- High-risk uses get time. Hiring, credit and education tools have longer to comply.
- Everyday AI still needs care. Chatbots should be clearly labelled as AI.
- Deepfake abuse is banned. Image tools need firm limits.
Use the extra time well
| Action | Why |
|---|---|
| List every AI tool you use | Know which could count as high-risk. |
| Label AI chat on your website | Transparency is expected now. |
| Keep humans in key decisions | Good practice under any timetable. |
| Document data sources | Makes later compliance much easier. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the EU AI Act being delayed?Parts of it. Parliament committees backed moving certain high-risk obligations to 2 December 2027. The final text depends on negotiations with member states.
Parts of it. Parliament committees backed moving certain high-risk obligations to 2 December 2027. The final text depends on negotiations with member states.
Does my website chatbot fall under the AI Act?Most customer chatbots are not high-risk, but transparency duties mean users should know they are talking to AI.
Most customer chatbots are not high-risk, but transparency duties mean users should know they are talking to AI.
What is the Digital Omnibus?A European Commission package to simplify EU digital rules, including targeted changes to the AI Act.
A European Commission package to simplify EU digital rules, including targeted changes to the AI Act.
AI features that respect European rules.
Labelled assistants, data minimisation and accessible websites for EU and UK customers.
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