WilmerHale’s Guide to the European Union’s AI Act

This guide provides a detailed examination of the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act), recognized as the first comprehensive legal framework for AI globally. It outlines the Act's provisions, which include rules on data quality, transparency, human oversight, and accountability, and discusses the significant implications for businesses operating within the EU. The guide emphasizes the urgency for companies to prepare for compliance, as the AI Act will begin to apply in phases starting August 2, 2026, with some requirements already in effect from February 2, 2025. It identifies key stakeholders affected by the Act, including providers, importers, distributors, and deployers of AI systems, and explains the territorial scope of the legislation, which extends to non-EU entities under certain conditions. Additionally, the guide clarifies the risk-based approach of the AI Act, categorizing AI systems based on their risk levels and detailing the obligations for high-risk AI systems. It serves as a resource for companies to navigate the complexities of compliance with the AI Act.