Meta halts AI features in EU due to privacy rules

The tech giant pauses AI development in Europe over regulatory concerns

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Mark Zuckerberg. Image: Shutterstock via Future

Meta has stopped the rollout of its advanced AI features in the EU because of uncertain data privacy regulations. This decision might delay the release of products like Quest headsets and smart glasses in Europe, according to The Guardian. 

Last month, Meta paused its AI data collection in response to a request from Ireland’s Data Protection Commission. Meta stated that it would release its new AI model, Llama, but not in the EU due to the unpredictable regulatory environment.

Additionally, Apple also won’t launch its new AI features in the EU this year for similar reasons. Both companies are concerned about unclear rules on using EU citizens’ personal data to train AI models.

While Meta and Apple are pausing their AI plans in Europe, other companies like Google and OpenAI continue to use EU data for AI training. This situation is contributing to tensions between the tech industry and EU regulators, with tech executives arguing that strict European regulations hinder growth and competition.

Meta’s AI data collection methods are under scrutiny following a complaint from privacy campaigner Max Schrems. He has requested European regulators to challenge Meta’s legal basis for collecting personal data.

Schrems argues that Meta’s claim to use any data for any purpose via AI technology contradicts GDPR compliance, labelling the term “AI technology” as overly broad and lacking legal limits.

Read More: AI GDPR Meta