The European Commission on Thursday released the final draft of a voluntary code of practice aimed at helping companies comply with the European Union’s forthcoming Artificial Intelligence Act.

The code, which takes effect on August 2 but will not be enforced until 2026, outlines key principles around transparency, copyright, safety, and security, according to Reuters.

Designed to offer legal clarity ahead of the sweeping new rules, the code targets providers of general-purpose AI models, with additional safety and security provisions for developers of more advanced systems.

While signing the code is optional, companies that opt out—some of which may include major tech firms—will not benefit from the legal certainty afforded to participants.

“Co-designed by AI stakeholders, the Code is aligned with their needs. Therefore, I invite all general-purpose AI model providers to adhere to the Code. Doing so will secure them a clear, collaborative route to compliance with the EU’s AI Act,” EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen said.

The initiative forms part of the EU’s broader push to position itself as a global leader in AI regulation, balancing innovation with accountability.