The AI Liability Directive would reduce the burden of proof on people suing over incidents involving AI and digital devices, with the goal of providing more legal clarity for manufacturers and consumers, the Commission said. 

In addition to drones and AI systems, other devices such as self-driving cars, voice assistants and search engines could also fall under the directive's scope, which could run alongside the EU's proposed Artificial Intelligence Act, the first law regulating the use of AI systems.  

Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders described it as a legal framework fit for the digital age.

"While considering the huge potential of new technologies, we must always ensure the safety of consumers," he said in a statement. "Proper standards of protection for EU citizens are the basis for consumer trust and therefore successful innovation. New technologies like drones or delivery services operated by AI can only work when consumers...