European Data Regulation
The European Union's (EU) long-awaited 'Data Act' was adopted in early 2024, marking a significant shift in the handling of user data by electronic devices and the repair industry. The law, which came into force on September 12, 2025, aims to make repairs cheaper or easier, foster competition, and provide users with greater control over their data.
The Data Act applies to a wide range of connected devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, smart kitchen appliances, cars, air conditioners, E-bikes, and more. Many electronic devices, such as fitness trackers and vacuum cleaners, collect and store user data without explicit consent, a practice that the Data Act seeks to address.
Under the Data Act, manufacturers are now required to disclose what data they collect and where it goes. Users have the right to actively decide which data they want to share and can view and delete their data in the future. This transparency is intended to provide users with an overview of when and what data is collected by electronic devices.
However, critics fear that the law may cause planning uncertainties and overload, especially for small businesses. Some companies have expressed concerns about intellectual property theft or resulting competitive disadvantages. The Data Act does not specify which specific data collection practices it aims to regulate, causing some confusion among manufacturers.
Consumer advocates criticize that the law allows too many exemptions, with mass data collected from various devices not falling under the law. They argue that this could leave users vulnerable to data breaches and privacy violations. The Data Act does not provide details on the penalties for non-compliance, which has raised concerns about enforcement.
Despite these concerns, the EU hopes that the Data Act will make it easier for users to switch providers, promoting fair competition and innovation in data use. Manufacturers must share data with other companies, as per the requirements of the Data Act, which is expected to drive down costs and improve repairability of electronic devices.
In summary, the EU's Data Act is a new data law designed to change the way user data is handled by electronic devices. While it faces criticisms, the law aims to provide users with greater control over their data and make repairs more accessible, fostering a more competitive and innovative market.
