Google is officially signing the European Union’s AI Code of Practice, a voluntary framework meant to help companies align with the region’s AI Act. Google believes the latest version of the code better reflects Europe’s goals around innovation and economic growth.
This move puts Google in line with other major AI players like Microsoft and OpenAI, who are also expected to sign on. But not everyone’s on board. Meta, for example, has refused to join. Google’s Kent Walker, who heads global affairs at the company, said the company wants to work with regulators, not push back against them.
Still, Walker said Google is stepping up to support responsible AI practices and transparency in how the tech is built and deployed. The company’s blog post echoed that message, emphasizing a balance between guardrails and progress.
Related: Google Clears The Air: No UK Demand For Encryption Backdoor.
Unlike the AI Act itself, which is enforceable by law, this code is voluntary. But signing it signals that Google is ready to play by Europe’s rules before they are officially in force. It’s also a strategic move, showing goodwill as regulators finalize how AI oversight will actually work.
