Google, Microsoft and xAI Join EU AI Code of Practice

Several major technology firms have committed to the European Union's voluntary code of practice for general-purpose artificial intelligence models. The framework, developed by 13 independent experts, helps companies meet transparency, safety, and security requirements mandated by the EU AI Act, with rules for systemic-risk models taking effect on August 2.

Google announced its intention to sign the code to promote citizen access to AI tools, though President of Global Affairs Kent Walker warned that requirements exposing trade secrets or departures from copyright law could chill European model development. Microsoft signed the full framework to demonstrate compliance and build trust, while urging policymakers to simplify the complex regulation. xAI took a more limited approach, signing only the Safety and Security chapter while criticizing other copyright and innovation requirements as an over-reach.

In contrast, Meta Platforms has declined to sign the code. Global Affairs Chief Joel Kaplan characterized the regulatory approach as heading down the wrong path, arguing that the framework creates legal uncertainties and would stunt the industry. Other firms, including Anthropic, Mistral, and Aleph Alpha, have also committed to the code.