The EU has introduced the 'Digital Omnibus' to relax AI and data privacy regulations, aiming to enhance innovation. This move has sparked debate between tech companies and privacy advocates.

The European Union has announced the 'Digital Omnibus' to reduce regulations on artificial intelligence and data privacy, aiming to stimulate innovation within the bloc. This reform package delays the implementation of stricter oversight for high-risk AI until 2027 and permits tech firms to utilize anonymised personal data for training AI models. Additionally, it seeks to minimize cookie consent pop-ups and lessen documentation burdens for small businesses. EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen stated that these changes would enhance European competitiveness by simplifying rules. However, tech lobbyists argue that the reforms do not go far enough, while privacy advocates view them as a significant threat to digital rights. Critics assert that the proposals represent a shift away from Europe's traditional rights-based regulatory approach, potentially aligning it more closely with a permissive, industry-driven model.