Google joins EU code for powerful AI models rebuffed by Meta

On Wednesday, Google announced its intention to join other major players, including OpenAI, in endorsing the European Union's newly released recommendations aimed at governing advanced artificial intelligence models. This initiative has faced rejection from Meta, which has been critical of the EU's digital regulations. The European Union recently unveiled its long-awaited code of practice for cutting-edge AI technologies, such as Google's Gemini. This announcement occurs as Brussels resists mounting pressure from both industry stakeholders and the United States to delay the implementation of these crucial regulations, which some argue could stifle the burgeoning AI sector in Europe. Kent Walker, Google's president of global affairs, stated, "We will join several other companies, including US model providers, in signing" the code. He emphasized the importance of fostering an environment that encourages AI development, warning that the new rules might hinder progress on the continent. "Departures from EU copyright law, prolonged approval processes, or requirements that threaten trade secrets could undermine European innovation and competitiveness," Walker cautioned. While OpenAI and the French startup Mistral have expressed their commitment to signing the code, Meta has voiced its dissent. Joel Kaplan, Meta's chief global affairs officer, labeled the code as introducing significant legal ambiguities for model creators and argued that it exceeds the boundaries set by the AI Act. The conflict between Meta and the EU isn't new, as the two have clashed over various topics, including the recent debate surrounding the EU's political advertising regulations. Instead of complying, Meta has opted to prohibit such advertising altogether. This month, major companies like France's Airbus and Germany's Lufthansa have urged the EU to reconsider the AI regulations, raising concerns that they may hinder Europe's ability to compete in the global AI landscape.