Meta has publicly refused to sign the European Union’s new AI code of practice, citing concerns over “over-reach.” The guidelines, which provide a framework for regulating companies operating in the EU, aim to regulate AI development and deployment.
The company’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, Joel Kaplan, described the code as “going far beyond the scope of the AI Act” and introduced “legal uncertainties” for model developers. Meta has previously criticized the EU’s AI regulations, calling them “unpredictable” and claiming they are “hampering innovation.”
Despite the guidelines being voluntary, signing the code would provide companies with more legal protection against future accusations of breaching the AI Act. Those who refuse to sign may face increased regulatory scrutiny.
The European Commission can impose fines of up to seven percent of a company’s annual sales for violating the AI Act, although advanced AI models are exempt from the higher penalty.
Meta’s resistance is seen as an attempt to outmuscle the EU and its regulations, with the company having found support in some quarters. The move has sparked concerns that Meta may be prioritizing profits over compliance with EU rules.
Source: https://www.engadget.com/ai/meta-says-it-wont-sign-the-eus-ai-code-of-practice-190132690.html