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Large Language ModelsAI Regulation & PolicyThe Verge AIPublished: Sep 1, 2026, 01:00 JST

ChatGPT faces tougher EU rules as Very Large Search Engine

ChatGPT faces tougher EU rules as Very Large Search Engine

3 Key Points

  1. What happened

    The European Commission designated ChatGPT a Very Large Online Search Engine under the EU's Digital Services Act, alongside Reddit and Roblox as Very Large Online Platforms.

  2. Why it matters

    Under the DSA, ChatGPT must now mitigate risks related to minors' impact, user mental health, and illegal content, plus comply with ad-targeting restrictions and transparency rules on recommendation algorithms.

  3. What to watch

    ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox have until the end of December 2026 to comply, as they each reach at least 45 million average monthly EU users.

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Context & Analysis

The European Commission's designation of ChatGPT as a Very Large Online Search Engine under the Digital Services Act marks a significant regulatory shift for OpenAI in the EU. Unlike typical search engines, ChatGPT's conversational AI presents unique challenges for compliance, particularly around content moderation and algorithmic transparency. The DSA's requirements to protect minors and mental health, and to curb illegal content, will likely force OpenAI to invest in new safety measures and reporting mechanisms by the end of December 2026. Reddit and Roblox, designated as Very Large Online Platforms, face similar obligations, reflecting a broader EU approach to holding major digital services accountable for their societal impact. The designation underscores the EU's proactive stance in regulating AI, potentially setting a precedent for other jurisdictions.

FAQ
What does the DSA require from ChatGPT?
ChatGPT must mitigate risks related to its impact on minors, user mental health, and illegal content spread. It also cannot target ads to minors or use sensitive personal data for ads, and must be transparent about its recommendation algorithms.
When must ChatGPT comply with the new rules?
ChatGPT, along with Reddit and Roblox, has until the end of December 2026 to comply with the DSA rules.
Why is ChatGPT considered 'Very Large'?
Under the DSA, online platforms and search engines are 'Very Large' when they reach at least 45 million average monthly users in the EU. ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox have met this threshold.

Also reported by THE DECODER

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