Online platforms

This subtopic contains guidance on EU level rules relating to online platforms.

Practice Note: Online platforms in the EU—introduction looks at key definitions and terms used to describe platform solutions, and gives an explanation of the common types of platform and terms associated with them, including online market places, streaming media platforms, social media platforms, video-sharing platform services, search engines, online instant messaging services and video communication/conferencing platforms. It also includes an explanation of the definitions, in each of the key pieces of legislation in the EU, used to determine the entities caught within the scope of that legislation, in most cases being the definition of intermediaries or intermediary services.

As the role of platforms becomes evermore pivotal in facilitating e-commerce, data exchange and social interaction, the EU legislative framework governing them is under assessment and revision. Platform providers need to keep a close eye on emerging regulations to ensure that they remain compliant.

The EU Geo-blocking Regulation

Regulation (EU) 2018/302 on addressing unjustified geo-blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers' nationality, place of residence or place of establishment within the

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