European Commission issues guidance on AI uses prohibited under Artificial Intelligence Act

A few days ago, the EU's Artificial Intelligence Act, a risk-based framework for regulating the use of artificial intelligence, entered its first compliance deadline - banning a handful of AI use cases with so-called "unacceptable risks", such as social scoring that could lead to unfavorable or unfavorable treatment; or the use of "subliminal technologies" for harmful manipulation.

On Tuesday, the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, published guidance for developers on how to comply with this aspect of the bloc's artificial intelligence rulebook, after a fixed deadline.

Developers looking to get help with the legal aspects of applying AI in the region will likely be keen to analyze these recommendations. Violation of the law's provisions on prohibited use cases may result in the most severe penalties: up to 7% of global turnover (or €35 million, whichever is greater).

"The Guidelines aim to ensure consistent, effective and uniform application of the Artificial Intelligence Law across the EU," the Commission wrote in a press release. However, the Commission acknowledged that the guidelines it developed are not legally binding, and whether there is a violation of the law will ultimately be implemented and adjudicated by regulators and courts.

"The guidance provides legal explanations and practical examples to help stakeholders understand and comply with the requirements of the Artificial Intelligence Act," the committee added.

The guidance (available for download here ) is published in draft form today. This is because formal adoption and application is still some way off, as the EU still needs to produce translations in the bloc's multiple official languages.

While the Artificial Intelligence Act became law in the region last year, its implementation continues, with additional compliance deadlines set to come in the coming months and years.

Enforcement is likely to be further staggered even where use is banned, as EU member states have until August 2 to designate the agency responsible for overseeing the rulebook.