Competition and Markets Authority review of AI foundation models

 

Competition and Markets Authority review of AI foundation models

The CMA has launched a review of Artificial Intelligence foundation models to better understand the competition and consumer protection implications.

Over the past two decades, the field of artificial intelligence or “AI” has been reshaping virtually every industry founded on the idea that machines could be used to simulate human intelligence through so-called “machine learning” or “ML”.  This evolution brings with it a number of benefits, including improvements in economic outcomes, enhanced human decision-making, increased levels of productivity and potential solutions for complex and pressing economic and social problems.  At the same time, AI and ML present a number of potential challenges that will need to be confronted if the full benefits are to be realised.  Not least, there is a challenge in ensuring that policy, laws and regulations governing systems enabled by AI are relevant, adequate and proportionate.

The CMA observes that AI foundation models have the potential to transform much of what individuals and businesses do.

In its March 2023 White Paper on AI regulation, the government asked regulators, including the CMA to consider how to support the innovative development of AI.

The CMA's initial review will examine how the competitive markets for foundation models and their use could evolve.

It will also examine the opportunities and risks for competition and consumer protection, including the impact on competition in other markets.

The CMA invites comments by 2 June 2023.

The CMA expects publish a short report setting out its findings in early September 2023.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cma-launches-initial-review-of-artificial-intelligence-models