EU goes soft on Big Tech in digital rules overhaul

Ethernet cables with IP addresses in the background

(Image credit: David Jancik / Shutterstock)

Despite generating most of the traffic, tech giants won't be responsible under the DNA
They'll still cooperate on a voluntary best practice regime
Could this be a response to threats by the US government?

Big tech firms like Google, Meta, Netflix, Microsoft, and Amazon will not face strict new regulations under the Commission's upcoming Digital Networks Act (DNA) despite lobbying from telecom companies, according to a new Reuters report.

Despite generating huge amounts of internet traffic, telecoms firms will remain the key target of Europe's DNA, with Big Tech set to follow a voluntary best practices framework instead.

As a result, Big Tech will face no new legal obligations, but their cooperation will be monitored by Europe's telecoms regulator BEREC. "There will be no new obligations. It will be a best practices regime," a personal familiar with the matter cited by Reuters explained.

Big Tech won't face DNA enforcement

Henna Virkkunen, VP of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, will formally present the Digital Networks Act on January 20, framing it as an opportunity to boost Europe's competitiveness and increase investment in telecoms infrastructure.

Further negotiations between EU member states and the bloc's Parliament are expected before the DNA becomes law, but at its core it will focus on modernizing networks through removing copper in favor of full fiber networks. Unsurprisingly, there's also a focus on strengthening cybersecurity across critical networks, including undersea cables.

Still, reports that Big Tech will be immune from additional regulations is very pertinent. Companies like Apple, Meta, and Google have all faced serious fines from European regulators over the past year, with Trump's administration accusing the EU of launching "discriminatory and harassing lawsuits" against American companies.

The US even threatened to use "every tool at its disposal" to counter Europe's enforcement.

Europe's DNA still has political connotations, though, with the upcoming plans designed to help Europe catch up with US and Chinese networks.

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With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!

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