EU Labels ChatGPT a Major Search Engine, Triggering New Rules

On 31 August 2026, the EU classified ChatGPT as a Very Large Online Search Engine under its Digital Services Act, grouping it with Google and Microsoft. The rules require openness about how the system works, limits on targeted ads, and safety measures. ChatGPT must comply by December 2026. Whether rules built for search engines fit a chatbot remains unclear.