- Despite generating most of the traffic, tech giants won't be responsible under the DNA
- They'll still cooperate on a voluntary best practice regime
- Could this be a response to threats by the US government?
Major tech companies such as Google, Meta, Netflix, Microsoft, and Amazon will not be subjected to stringent regulations under the forthcoming Digital Networks Act (DNA) from the European Commission, as reported by Reuters.
While these firms generate significant internet traffic, the primary focus of the DNA will remain on telecom companies, with Big Tech expected to adhere to a voluntary best practices framework instead.
This means that Big Tech will not face new legal obligations, although their compliance will be overseen by Europe's telecoms regulator BEREC. A source familiar with the situation stated, "There will be no new obligations. It will be a best practices regime," as cited by Reuters.
Big Tech Won't Face DNA Enforcement
Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission's VP for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, is set to formally unveil the Digital Networks Act on January 20. This initiative aims to enhance Europe's competitiveness and stimulate investment in telecom infrastructure.
Further discussions among EU member states and the bloc's Parliament are anticipated before the DNA is enacted. The core focus will be on modernizing networks by replacing copper with full fiber networks, alongside strengthening cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructures, including undersea cables.
Reports indicating that Big Tech will be exempt from additional regulations are particularly noteworthy. Companies like Apple, Meta, and Google have faced substantial fines from European regulators over the past year, with Trump's administration accusing the EU of launching "discriminatory and harassing lawsuits" against American firms.
The US has even threatened to utilize "every tool at its disposal" to counteract Europe's regulatory actions.
Despite this, the DNA carries significant political implications, with plans aimed at helping Europe catch up with US and Chinese network capabilities.
