Ensure EU Data Act Compliance with Panasonic TOUGHBOOK

Data Access & Sharing: Putting Users in Control

The EU Data Act gives users the right to access and share data that their devices generate. Whether it’s sensor readings from a remote pipeline; or GPS logs from a logistics provider’s delivery route, TOUGHBOOK users can easily retrieve data and share it with third parties if they choose.

Product Design: Built for Access, Not Just Durability

The EU Data Act says devices must be designed to allow easy, secure, and free access to data in structured, machine-readable formats. For TOUGHBOOK devices, that means ensuring technology is designed to meet “access by design” requirements, secure APIs, or smarter edge software that works even when connectivity is patchy. We’ve always stood by “durability without compromise”; this now includes ensuring that your data is just as accessible as your device is reliable.

Data Mapping & Classification: Know What You’re Working With

To stay compliant, organisations need to know which data their TOUGHBOOK devices collect. That means classifying it, figuring out what’s personal, what’s operational, and what falls under the EU Data Act’s sharing rules. Whether it’s raw telemetry or refined analytics, understanding data is key. Our team and software partners are ready to help you map it all out, even in the most complex environments.

Privacy & GDPR: Covering All the Bases

If your TOUGHBOOK is configured to process and store personal data – such as employee credentials, health information, or location tracking – you’ll also need to comply with GDPR. That means ensuring that elements such as Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), and privacy policies are up-to-date, and that you have strong safeguards in place. 

Fortunately, TOUGHBOOK devices come packed with enterprise-grade security features like TPM chips, BIOS protection, and encrypted storage to help you and your team meet these requirements.

Contracts & Governance: Time for a Refresh

The EU Data Act also means updating your contracts with users, partners, and third parties. This will require robust governance programs to manage data access requests, while still protecting sensitive information and intellectual property. For TOUGHBOOK users, this might mean revisiting service agreements and internal policies. We’re here to help make sure everything’s aligned in this new landscape.

Small Enterprise Exemptions: You Might Catch a Break

Not every organisation has to follow every rule. If you have fewer than 50 employees in your business, and a modest turnover, you might qualify for exemptions. If your TOUGHBOOK deployment is part of a smaller operation, it’s worth checking where you stand.

Timeline: What to Do and When

Here’s how we suggest you tackle the rollout:

• 2025: Audit your data, update contracts, and start assessing firmware/software needs.
• 2025–2026: Roll out accessibility features, train your teams, and fine-tune governance protocols.