EU draft would let adults disable compulsive-use features

Bloomberg reported that it had seen a draft of the Digital Fairness Act and that the draft would require companies to let adult users switch off features that encourage compulsive or excessive use.[1] Bloomberg’s headline describes the proposal as addressing AI chatbot features as well as addictive social media.[1] That framing is a report about the draft’s scope, not evidence that every chatbot or social-media feature would be restricted. The Commission describes addictive design as one of several issues the initiative aims to address.[3]

MLex reported that the leaked draft would require consumers’ explicit agreement before a free trial became a paid subscription.[2] The Commission says the initiative aims to address dark patterns, unfair personalisation, influencer marketing, pricing practices and digital-contract issues, among other topics.[3] A newsletter about the draft says it would generally prohibit manipulative online interface design and restrict personalised advertising.[4] The newsletter also says it would require easier online cancellation and renewal reminders.[4] These details come from reporting on a draft, rather than an enacted law.

MLex reported that the Commission was scheduled to present the Digital Fairness Act on November 11, alongside a reform of the Consumer Protection Cooperation framework.[2] The proposals would need approval from the European Parliament and EU governments before becoming law, according to MLex.[2] The Commission says the initiative is intended to strengthen consumer protection and digital fairness, ensure a level playing field and simplify business rules.[3] For businesses assessing product or contract changes, the distinction between a scheduled presentation and rules that have completed the approval process is important.

The Commission identifies vulnerable consumers, particularly minors, as a key focus of the initiative.[3] It said it surveyed almost 5,000 children from all EU member states in April 2026 about issues related to the planned Act.[5] In that survey, 48% called for rules on addictive design that keeps users online longer, while 58% wanted better protection from personalised advertising and pricing.[5] The Commission also reported that 69% believed influencers should only promote products to children that are safe and appropriate, and 72% favoured some form of age verification on social media.[5]