The Commission proposal for a new AI regulation
The earliest artificial intelligence research dates back to as early as the mid-1900s. However, owing to the unforeseen capacities of modern computing and the availability of data, we are now experiencing the golden age of artificial intelligence. For all its benefits, this development has also introduced new technology-related risks as well as uncertainties in determining legal responsibilities. The EU is seeking to pave the way in the field of AI and, in April, the European Commission published the globally first-ever proposal for a comprehensive regulation of artificial intelligence. The proposal aims at guaranteeing the EU’s competitiveness in the field of developing new technologies and ensuring that AI systems are reliable.
Artificial intelligence – advanced analytics or self-aware super systems?
AI is currently a significantly hot topic and may be used to refer to a large variety of different technologies. A key challenge in discussing artificial intelligence is actually pinpointing what artificial intelligence means precisely. For those fixed on dystopias, the daunting prospect of self-aware robots from sci-fi movies may spring to mind. On the other hand, the concept of artificial intelligence often refers to nearly any advanced analytics solutions that are based on machine learning and that can be used in the automation of data processing and decision-making.
From a technical perspective, there is no precise definition for artificial intelligence. Generally, artificial intelligence can be used to refer to a machine’s ability to exhibit skills that are traditionally linked to human intelligence (such as learning, planning, deduction and creation) without continuous control by a human user. In terms of machine learning technologies, a machine’s ability of independent improvement of its performance through further experience and data is also essential. Despite these typical criteria, the concept of artificial intelligence continues to evolve as technology develops.
Practical applications of artificial intelligence are already part and parcel of our everyday life, since many of the tools we use daily contain some form of artificial intelligence. Such tools include voice-controlled virtual assistants, automated translation solutions, tools for recommending marketing and other content, and many smart home applications.
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