Google’s highly anticipated generative AI model, Bard, has finally been launched in Europe after facing delays in complying with the EU’s data protection rules. As a leader in Artificial Intelligence, Google is making strides in the field of generative AI, specifically large language models that can generate human-like content based on user input.
Previously, tech companies were cautious about releasing their language models due to concerns about potential societal risks. However, last year, Stability AI released its text-to-image model, Stable Diffusion, and just three months later, OpenAI launched the chatbot ChatGPT, which quickly gained popularity as the fastest-growing internet service due to its unprecedented human-like responses.
In response to the rising expectations from users and investors, Google unveiled Bard in February as an AI-assisted search tool. However, the launch in Europe was delayed in June as Google had not adequately addressed how it planned to comply with the EU General Data Protection Regulation. Following productive conversations with data protection authorities across Europe, Google has now resolved these issues and made Bard available in Europe.
Jack Krawczyk, Google’s product director, explained that they view Bard as more than just a chatbot and have termed it augmented imagination. The privacy features of Bard will be consistent both within and outside of Europe. Google will continue to engage with regulatory authorities, and a review will be conducted after three months of Bard being operational in the EU.
The European Data Protection Board has also taken action by launching a task force on ChatGPT to establish a coordinated approach to generative AI models. These models will also fall under the scope of the upcoming AI Act, which aims to regulate Artificial Intelligence based on potential harm. Bard’s integration and regulation will be a key topic in the legislative process.
Simultaneously, Bard has received its largest update to date, expanding its language availability to over 40 languages, including German, Spanish, and Chinese. Users will now have the option to listen to the AI model’s responses, as well as revisit and continue previous conversations. Bard also introduced new capabilities, such as adjusting the tone and style of responses, using images as prompts, and exporting Python code to Replit for coding purposes. In the future, Bard aims to incorporate information from other Google products, such as Google Maps and Gmail.
The launch of Bard in Europe showcases Google’s commitment to complying with data protection regulations and meeting the demands of users and investors. With its expanded language capabilities and new features, Bard aims to provide a conversational AI experience that is both innovative and user-friendly. As AI models continue to evolve, it is crucial to strike a balance between functionality and protecting users’ interests and rights. Through its delayed release, Bard demonstrates the effectiveness and feasibility of European rules in safeguarding consumer interests in the AI landscape.
