In recent developments, technology conglomerate Meta will not be rolling out its AI models in Europe presently. This decision came to light on Friday when the firm disclosed that the Data Protection Commission of the state ordered it to postpone its initiative of harnessing user data from platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
The postponement action by Meta responded to the criticisms and appeal from the advocacy group NOYB. The appeal was directed towards the data protection bodies in several European countries including Austria, Belgium, France, and Germany, amongst others. The appeal urged these authorities to oppose Meta.
The topic under scrutiny is Meta’s proposal to utilise personal data for training its AI models. This would be done without obtaining prior approval, even though Meta assured that it would only employ publicly accessible and licenced online details.
Furthermore, Meta announced on Friday that the Irish data privacy watchdog advised it to defer training its Large Language Models (LLMs) harnessing public material shared by adults who are active users of Facebook and Instagram.
In an updated blog post, the company expressed disappointment regarding the Irish DPC’s request, remarking that the request was a regression for European Innovation and competitiveness in AI development. Meta explained that inability to include local information would mean providing users a subpar experience, thereby inhibiting the launch of Meta’s AI in Europe currently.
The DPC in Ireland has commended Meta’s halt, remarking that the decision was made after thorough engagement with the regulator. In addition, Chairman of NOYB, Max Schrems credited the group’s complaints filed in the preceding week for Meta’s momentary cessation. As of now, Meta’s privacy policy has not been officially modified to make this decision legally binding. The filed cases continue and await a verdict.