EU Commission Issues Draft Guidance on AI Transparency Under the AI Act

On 8 May 2026, the European Commission published draft guidelines on how to implement the transparency obligations for certain AI systems under Article 50 of the EU AI Act. The document is part of the Commission’s broader effort to support consistent application of the AI Act across Member States before key obligations start to apply.

The draft guidelines are designed as practical guidance for national competent authorities, as well as for providers and deployers of AI systems. They clarify when and how transparency duties apply, including obligations to inform individuals when they interact with specific AI systems or when AI-generated content is used.

A central objective of the guidelines is to promote uniform interpretation of Article 50 across the EU. By outlining common scenarios, compliance expectations, and enforcement considerations, the Commission aims to reduce fragmentation and legal uncertainty for market participants operating in multiple Member States.

Although non-binding, the guidelines are likely to carry significant persuasive weight in supervisory practice. Providers and deployers should review them closely and start aligning internal policies, user disclosures, and governance processes to anticipate enforcement under the AI Act.