The European Commission has quietly introduced a new rule banning AI-powered virtual assistants from attending its virtual meetings. The measure was first enforced during a recent call with representatives from digital policy support offices across Europe, during which a presentation slide clearly stated, “No AI Agents are allowed.” The Commission confirmed the decision but declined to elaborate on its reasons.
This move comes amid the rise of so-called AI agents—more autonomous than traditional chatbots, these virtual assistants can perform multiple tasks, such as joining online meetings, taking notes, or interacting in real-time on behalf of users. Unlike single-task tools like ChatGPT, AI agents are designed to operate independently within predefined parameters in digital environments.
Although the technology isn’t yet regulated, it falls under the EU’s broader AI Act. AI agents were also referenced in a March 31st Commission package on virtual worlds. Meanwhile, companies like OpenAI, Microsoft, and France’s Mistral are already piloting agent-based tools, signaling a future where digital avatars may soon become regular participants in our daily workspaces—not just in Brussels, for now.
