On February 6, 2025, OpenAI announced the launch of its European data storage service, which allows companies to comply with local data protection regulations. The new feature affects ChatGPT Enterprise, ChatGPT Edu and API Platform users, ensuring data storage and processing within Europe.
As part of the European data storage service, API users can select the European region for data processing when creating new projects, where the system operates with a zero data retention policy. All user content - including conversations, uploaded files, and custom GPTs - is stored in the European region for new ChatGPT Enterprise and Edu customers. Data protection is ensured by AES-256 encryption for stored data, while data transmission is protected by TLS 1.2+ protocol. "We look forward to working with more European organisations while maintaining the highest standards of security, privacy, and compliance," OpenAI stated in its Thursday blog post.
The significance of this move is demonstrated by the fact that several European regulatory authorities, including Spain and Germany, had previously launched investigations against OpenAI due to data processing practices. In December 2023, Italy's data protection authority imposed a €15.6 million fine on the company for violating European consumer data protection requirements. With the new data storage solution, OpenAI complies with GDPR and other local regulations while serving major European clients such as Booking.com, BBVA, Zalando, and Oxford University.
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Kyle Wiggers
Onome
