EU proposes new copyright rules for generative artificial intelligence

(Reuters) – Companies using generative artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT must disclose all copyrighted material used to develop their systems, under an early EU deal that could pave the way for the world’s first comprehensive laws governing the technology.

The European Commission began drafting an AI law nearly two years ago to regulate the emerging technology, which experienced a boom in investment and popularity after the launch of OpenAI’s AI-powered chatbot ChatGPT.

Members of the European Parliament agreed to take the draft to the next stage, a tripartite meeting, where EU lawmakers and member states will work out the final details of the bill.

According to the proposals, AI tools will be classified according to their perceived level of risk: from minimal to limited, high and unacceptable. Concerns may include biometric surveillance, the spread of false information, or the use of discriminatory language.

Although risky tools are not banned, those who use them must be very open about their actions.

Companies using creative AI tools like ChatGPT or the Midjourney image generator must also disclose all copyrighted material used to develop their systems.

According to a source familiar with the matter, some committee members initially proposed banning the use of copyrighted material to train generative AI models. This was waived due to the transparency requirement.

“To meet conservatives’ wishes for more control and left-wing fantasies of over-regulation, Parliament found a solid compromise that regulates AI proportionately, protects citizens’ rights, promotes innovation and boosts the economy,” said MEP Svenja Hahn. .

Backed by Microsoft, OpenAI raised awe and anxiety around the world when it announced ChatGPT late last year. The chatbot became the fastest growing consumer app in history, reaching 100 million monthly active users in a matter of weeks.

The ensuing race between tech companies to bring generative AI products to market worried some viewers, with Twitter owner Elon Musk backing a proposal to suspend development of such systems for six months.

Shortly after the letter was signed, the Financial Times reported that Musk planned to launch his own startup to rival OpenAI.

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