Definition

Core functionality

The test that decides whether an Annex III or IV category applies: the listed function must be the product's core purpose, not an incidental feature.

Annex III and Annex IV apply to products whose core functionality falls within a listed category. A product that incidentally contains a listed function — an operating system that includes a VPN client, an application with a login screen — is not automatically an important product. The judgement should be documented with reasoning and an approver, because it determines the conformity assessment route and can be challenged by market surveillance authorities.

Reference: Art. 7(1); Art. 8(1) · Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 on EUR-Lex

Updated 2026-09-12 · Paraphrase for orientation, not legal advice.