Next Phase of the EU AI Act Comes Into Force
On 2 August, the next phase of the EU AI Act entered into force. The regulation builds upon the GDPR and establishes a new framework for high-risk applications across all member states.
What happened?
On 2 August, the next phase of the EU AI Act came into force. The legislation, described as the world’s first comprehensive framework for artificial intelligence, builds upon existing digital laws such as the GDPR by setting clear boundaries for how AI systems should be developed and used.
Key facts
| Ikraftträdandedatum | 2 augusti 2026 |
|---|---|
| Lagstiftning | EU AI Act |
Why it matters
The purpose of the regulation is to complement existing digital legislation, such as the GDPR, and to regulate AI based on a risk-based model. The regulations introduce stricter requirements and obligations for high-risk systems to prevent harm to citizens' safety and fundamental rights.
Who is affected?
The regulation affects all AI developers, providers, and companies that offer or use AI systems within the EU market. End-users and citizens are affected through strengthened consumer protection and limitations on how high-risk AI technology may be utilised.
Impact on the EU
As an EU regulation, the AI Act is directly applicable in all EU member states, including Sweden, without the need for national legislation to be adopted. The law also has an extraterritorial effect, meaning that companies outside the union must comply with the rules if their AI systems are used in or affect individuals within the EU.
What else you should know
The date of 2 August marked the start of the next step in the phased implementation of the law. After the first prohibitions came into force at the beginning of the year, requirements for generative AI models and high-risk systems are now being phased in gradually over a multi-year transition period.
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