Tag: ai compliance

The unveiling of the final text of the AI Act marks a pivotal moment in the regulatory landscape for Artificial Intelligence. With the Act swiftly progressing, organisations need to promptly adapt their AI strategies to meet the new legal and ethical standards.

In this article, AI Ireland delve into the critical aspects of the AI Act, highlighting recent significant changes and offering strategic insights to ensure organisations are both compliant and successful in the evolving AI environment.

Prohibited AI Systems

The final text of the AI Act prohibits various AI practices to safeguard against manipulation and harm. Noteworthy prohibitions include the use of AI systems employing subliminal techniques or exploiting vulnerabilities based on age, disability or social situations. 

Additionally, biometric categorisation systems inferring sensitive information and real-time remote biometric identification in public spaces for law enforcement are restricted. The Act also addresses concerns related to profiling and the creation of facial recognition databases through untargeted scraping.

High-Risk AI Systems

A significant change in the final text is the classification of AI systems as high-risk based on specific criteria, with a particular emphasis on profiling natural persons. Providers must undergo an AI Impact Assessment and register their systems in the EU database. Notably, the Act applies not only to providers placing AI systems on the market but also to deployers of general-purpose AI models, regardless of their location.

General Purpose AI

The AI Act introduces General Purpose AI models (GPAI models) as a new addition, defining them as models displaying significant generality and capable of performing a wide range of tasks. Notably, the Act exempts AI models used for research and development activities before market release. GPAI models, especially those with systemic risk, are subject to specific obligations, including standardised evaluations, risk assessments, and cooperation with authorities.

Deep Fakes

In the context of elections and beyond, the Act addresses deep fakes, requiring disclosure when an AI system generates or manipulates image, audio or video content. Notably, exemptions exist for authorised law enforcement use and artistic, creative, satirical or fictional works.

Human Oversight and Employer Obligations

The Act emphasises the importance of human oversight proportional to the risks and autonomy of AI systems. Employers deploying high-risk AI systems must inform workers and their representatives, aligning with EU and national laws and practices.

Codes of Practice

The AI Office plays a pivotal role in developing codes of practice to support the AI Act’s application. Involving various stakeholders, including AI model providers, the codes aim to ensure compliance with specific articles, focusing on key performance indicators and the interests of relevant parties.