The Digital Omnibus on AI enters into force today

The legislation mandates that national authorities in EU member states must establish AI regulatory sandboxes by August 2027. These sandboxes are designed to allow companies to test AI applications under regulatory supervision. Additionally, the Digital Omnibus specifies that AI embedded in products covered by the EU's Machinery Regulation is excluded from the AI Act's high-risk classification.

Under the provisions, AI systems that are integrated into machinery and already subject to the Machinery Regulation will not be required to comply with the AI Act's high-risk obligations. This exclusion covers a wide range of industrial equipment, including robots, automated assembly lines, and other machinery that incorporates AI functionality.

The Digital Omnibus is part of the EU's ongoing effort to regulate artificial intelligence while balancing innovation and safety. The exclusion for machinery-embedded AI is a notable carve-out that limits the AI Act's scope for a significant portion of industrial applications. Companies that embed AI in machinery should verify whether their products fall under the Machinery Regulation to determine their specific compliance obligations. The entry into force of the Omnibus begins the timeline for sandbox implementation by August 2027.