- The European Commission designates ChatGPT, Reddit and Roblox as very large services under the DSA.
- The three platforms have over 45 million monthly users in the EU.
- They have four months, until December, to comply with the new obligations.
- They must assess and mitigate systemic risks such as illicit content, child protection, and public safety.
The European Commission has taken another step in regulating large digital platforms by including ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox in the category of very large services. This decision, based on the number of monthly active users in the European Union, obliges these companies to comply with the stricter requirements of the Digital Services Act (DSA).
Specifically, Brussels has classified ChatGPT as a very large online search engine, while Reddit and Roblox are considered very large online platforms. All three exceed the threshold of 45 million monthly active users , granting them significant influence in the European digital landscape. They now have four months, until December, to adapt to the new regulations.
What does the designation of 'very large size' imply?
The 'very large' designation is not merely a recognition; it entails a series of additional obligations. Designated companies must assess and mitigate the systemic risks that may arise from their services and algorithmic systems. This includes the dissemination of illegal content, negative effects on minors , the physical and mental well-being of users, respect for fundamental rights, electoral processes, and public safety. Ultimately, it is about ensuring that these platforms operate responsibly and transparently.
Specific obligations and supervision
Among the measures they will have to adopt, the need to implement mechanisms to identify and reduce the risks associated with their algorithms stands out. Furthermore, they will have to offer greater transparency regarding the operation of their recommendation systems and how content is managed. The European Commission, for its part, acquires investigative powers to examine in detail the functionalities of these services and, if necessary, any related systems. This represents a significant strengthening of oversight at the EU level.
Reactions and next steps
The European Commission's Vice-President for Technological Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, welcomed the decision. In her statement, she noted that "ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox will now be subject to a higher level of control and accountability within the European Union, in line with their significant impact on our citizens and society." She also warned that Brussels continues to closely monitor the digital landscape and will not hesitate to designate any other platform that reaches the established threshold.
In short, the inclusion of ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox in the DSA's enhanced supervision regime marks a milestone in European digital regulation. These platforms, with millions of users in the EU, will now have to comply with higher standards of security and transparency. The deadline for compliance is December, and the European Commission will be monitoring the situation to ensure these obligations are met. This measure reinforces the EU's commitment to protecting citizens in the digital environment and sets a precedent for future designations.
