The new AI Act, recently passed by the European Union, is legislation designed to regulate artificial intelligence applications. It’s considered one of the world’s toughest AI regulations, focusing on protecting citizens’ rights and freedoms while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
When does the AI Act come into force?
The AI Act was adopted by the EU Parliament on March 13, 2024, and will soon become law after approval by the European Council. It will be enforced gradually, with full enforcement taking up to 24 months, though certain aspects could be enforced in as little as six months.
Who does the AI Act affect?
The AI Act affects any business operating within the EU’s 27 member states or dealing with European consumers, not just companies based in Europe. It adds obligations for these entities to comply with the regulations, similar to the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
What are some uses of AI that will be banned under the AI Act?
The AI Act prohibits AI applications considered harmful, such as those used to manipulate behavior in detrimental ways, biometric classification for inferring sensitive personal information, social scoring systems leading to discrimination, and remote biometric identification in public spaces.
Are there any exemptions to the banned AI uses?
Yes, there are exemptions for law enforcement and scientific study under specific conditions, including preventing terrorism and locating missing people.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with the AI Act?
Non-compliance can result in fines of up to 30 million euros or 6% of a company’s global turnover, whichever is higher. Additionally, non-compliance could significantly damage a business’s reputation.
What is meant by high-risk AI?
High-risk AI includes applications with significant potential for harm, such as self-driving cars and medical devices. Businesses involved in these areas will face stricter rules around data quality and protection.
How does the AI Act address transparency?
The Act mandates that AI-generated images must be clearly marked to prevent deception and disinformation. It also requires developers of high-risk AI systems to provide detailed information about their operations, including data use, functioning, and human oversight.
What does the AI Act mean for the future of AI regulation?
The EU AI Act sets a precedent for global AI regulation, indicating that further regulations may follow in other regions. Businesses worldwide need to prepare by understanding their AI applications’ risk levels and striving for transparency and ethical AI practices.
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