Regulation European on Artificial Intelligence: The First Steps of the AI Act Are Activated

The European Regulation on Artificial Intelligence, known as the AI Act, represents a major advance in technology regulation. On February 2, preliminary measures come into effect, signaling a new chapter in AI governance. The prohibition of uses deemed unacceptable, such as “social scoring” tools, pertains to fundamental issues of protection of individual rights and algorithmic transparency. These ambitious objectives aim to regulate a rapidly changing sector, while raising questions about their impact on market players.

European Regulation on Artificial Intelligence

The European Regulation on Artificial Intelligence, known as the AI Act, came into effect on February 2, 2024. Just days before the AI Action Summit in Paris, the first measures of this ambitious text are being implemented. This regulation aims to provide a regulatory response to the challenges posed by artificial intelligence technologies.

Prohibited Measures under the AI Act

Uses of AI considered unacceptable will now be prohibited. Among these practices, the use of social scoring software, similar to those currently in China, will be strictly banned. The AI Act also aims to block the use of AI for predictive policing, used to profile individuals, and bans emotion recognition within professional or educational environments.

The text also prohibits any exploitation of individual vulnerabilities, as well as the use of manipulative techniques. Real-time facial recognition in public spaces and the biometric categorization of individuals are also banned. These measures reflect the European authorities’ desire to protect citizens’ fundamental rights while regulating high-risk technological practices.

Debate on Implementation

The full implementation of the AI Act will occur gradually. Guiding measures, as well as specific obligations related to general-use AI models, will take effect on August 1, 2024. This concerns large text and image generation models, such as ChatGPT or Gemini (Google).

Discussions regarding the technical aspects of the text and its implementation are ongoing. How companies will comply, as well as potential legal challenges, are subjects of intense debate. This dialogue will intensify during notable gatherings with the presence of heads of state and speakers such as Elon Musk and Sam Altman.

Transparency Obligations

General-use AI models will be subject to transparency obligations. Companies will need to provide detailed information about their technical documentation and the nature of training data. The largest AI models will also be required to undergo security audits to assess the risks associated with their deployment.

These obligations aim to ensure the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence while guaranteeing an adequate level of security for users. The AI Act thus fits into a framework of regulations within the European Union, aimed at improving the coexistence of AI technologies with individual rights.

Reactions and Perspectives

The reaction of businesses to the implementation of these new regulations is already noticeable. Many express concerns about their ability to adapt to the requirements of the AI Act. Civil society actors, as well as business associations, are worried about the repercussions this could have on innovation and global competitiveness. Analyze available articles to learn more about the current state of discussions.

Questions also remain about the real impact of these measures on technological development. The question of balancing regulation and innovation will be at the heart of the debates. Initial feedback on the measures in effect will serve as a barometer to evaluate the future of regulations associated with artificial intelligence in the EU.

FAQ on the European Regulation on Artificial Intelligence: AI Act

What is the European Regulation on Artificial Intelligence (AI Act)?
The European Regulation on Artificial Intelligence, also known as the AI Act, aims to establish a legal framework for the development and use of artificial intelligence systems in the European Union, ensuring the protection of fundamental rights and the safety of users.
When does the AI Act come into effect?
The initial provisions of the AI Act came into effect on February 2, 2024, with additional components to be implemented gradually, starting August 1, 2024, for certain general-use AI models.
What types of AI uses are prohibited by the AI Act?
The regulation prohibits certain unacceptable AI uses, such as social scoring systems, real-time facial recognition in public spaces, and manipulation of people through subliminal techniques.
How does the AI Act ensure the transparency of AI models?
AI models classified as ‘general-use’ must comply with transparency requirements by providing clear technical documentation and disclosing the data used for their training.
What are the impacts for companies developing or using AI?
Companies will need to comply with the new obligations of the regulation, particularly regarding transparency, security audits, and risk management, under penalty of sanctions.
What measures are taken to monitor AI systems?
The regulation imposes regular security audits for general-use AI models to assess potential risks, including cybersecurity risks.
How does the AI Act influence the future development of AI in Europe?
It establishes standards aimed at encouraging responsible AI development, ensuring user protection while remaining competitive globally.
Are law enforcement agencies exempt from the restrictions imposed by the AI Act?
There are certain exceptions for law enforcement agencies, particularly regarding the use of AI technology in law enforcement, but these must also comply with strict standards.
What are the next steps after the AI Act comes into effect?
A phase of gradual implementation will follow, with adaptations for different categories of AI and continuous monitoring to adjust the regulatory framework according to technological developments.