Google’s AI Feature on Hold in EU Countries
Google’s Search-integrated AI feature, known as AI Overviews, has faced delays in its rollout across most EU countries due to regulatory uncertainty. A senior executive from Google has confirmed that the feature is currently on hold as the company navigates the complex landscape of European regulations.
Launch and Current Status
AI Overviews was officially launched in late March in eight EU member states, including Austrian, Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Portugal, and Spain, as well as in Switzerland. However, its launch has been delayed in remaining EU countries, including France, which has stringent national laws regarding neighbouring rights and copyright.
The uncertainty surrounding whether AI Overviews will be available in France remains, with officials suggesting that while it is “not impossible,” no definitive timeline has been established.
Impact of EU Regulations
The delay in launching AI Overviews is attributed to a slew of EU tech regulations, including the AI Act, Digital Services Act (DSA), and Digital Markets Act (DMA). These regulations are perceived to hinder the introduction of innovative features, with concerns raised over the potential impact on product innovation within the EU.
According to the executive, “The EU is behind when it comes to product innovation, and users in Europe will have a less good product experience.” This sentiment underscores the challenges faced by tech companies operating in a highly regulated environment.
Comparison with Other Tech Companies
Google is not alone in facing these challenges. Meta has also recently encountered delays in launching its AI assistant in Europe, attributing the holdup to regulatory disputes from the previous year. Meta expressed that it has taken longer than anticipated to bring AI technology to European users while navigating the complex regulatory framework.
In a statement made earlier this month, Meta’s representatives, including CEO Mark Zuckerberg, have been critical of Europe’s regulatory actions against US tech companies, suggesting that these measures may not enhance European competitiveness.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Google’s AI Overviews and similar technologies highlights the intricate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring robust regulatory frameworks in the tech industry. As the EU continues to establish its regulatory stance, the impact on both users and companies will be closely monitored.
