Chatbot disclosure: Chatbot disclosure means people are told they are interacting with an AI system, unless that is obvious from the context. Article 50(1) of the AI Act requires it from 2 August 2026. "Chatbot disclosure" is our plain name for this duty, not a term defined in the Act.
In plain words
If an AI chats with your customers, it should say so, clearly, at the start. One sentence in the first message is usually enough.
What it means for a small business
The legal duty sits mainly with the chatbot's provider, who must design it to tell people. Because it is your website and your customers, check what they actually see. The information must be clear and given at the latest at the first interaction.
Example
Example"Hi! I'm Bakery Studio's virtual assistant, an AI. I can help with orders and opening hours. Want a person instead? Type 'human'."
Source
Regulation (EU) 2024/1689, the AI Act, Article 50(1) and 50(5), on EUR-Lex. This page explains the term in plain words; it is not legal advice.