The European Parliament has reached a significant milestone by approving the EU AI Act, a set of groundbreaking regulations for artificial intelligence. This move marks a crucial step towards the first formal regulation of AI in the Western world. Let’s take a closer look!
TL;DR
- The AI Act will impose stricter regulations on generative AI tools like ChatGPT, requiring developers to undergo a review process before commercial release.
- The ban on real-time biometric identification systems and “social scoring” systems has been reaffirmed by the Parliament.
- This decision by the European Parliament reflects the global trend of countries establishing rules and standards for AI.
Parliament’s Overwhelming Support for AI Act Paves the Way for Formal AI Rules. Image: Getty Images
AI Act: Parliament’s Overwhelming Support Sets Stage for Global Regulation
The global tech industry has increasingly focused on AI. Significantly, this technology has captivated academics, business leaders, and even students with its ability to generate new content based on user prompts. However, concerns have arisen. These are regarding potential job displacement, the spread of misinformation, and bias.
During a critical vote on Wednesday, the Parliament overwhelmingly supported the AI Act. There were 499 votes in favor, 28 against, and 93 abstentions. While the regulation is not yet law, it is expected to become one of the first formal rules for AI globally.
Specifically, as part of the AI act, the European Parliament has tightened restrictions on generative AI tools such as ChatGPT. These will now require developers to undergo a review process before releasing their systems commercially. The Parliament also reaffirmed the ban on real-time biometric identification systems and controversial ‘social scoring’ systems.
These regulations carry significant implications for developers of generative AI models, including Microsoft-backed OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard.
This move by the European Parliament aligns with the global trend. Markedly, many countries are seeking to establish rules and standards for AI. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently presented a bold proposition to position the UK as the “geographical home” of AI safety regulation, and the government plans to host a global summit on AI safety later this year.
