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Starting simple, how is Artificial Intelligence (AI) defined?
A generally accepted definition is that AI “is that activity devoted to making machines intelligent, and intelligence is that quality that enables an entity to function appropriately and with foresight in its environment”.
Is AI a person?
From a legal perspective, AI is not considered to be a legal person or a legal agent. It is not recognised as having its own legal personality as current AI systems do not possess real cognitive skills, which can be applied to a range of problems, like humans do. AI is therefore characterised as personal property.
What classifications of AI are there?
ANI (Artificial Narrow Intelligence)
This is the form used in almost all current AI applications and is capable of automatically performing functions only where it has been programmed to do so.
AGI (Artificial General Intelligence)
These are AI machines currently being developed which would be capable of independently learning, understanding, perceiving, connection building and learning competencies.
ASI (Artificial Superintelligence)
This form of AI is expected to be developed and will be the most intelligent entity on the planet and capable of all human functions but to a better degree due to increased speed in decision-making.
What does AI look like in everyday business life?
Any machine which conducts a task which would typically require human intelligence will be powered by AI technology. Examples include:
- autocorrect;
- chatbots;
- smart thermostats;
- manufacturing robots; and
- personalised advertising.
Why is understanding AI relevant to your business?
With the development of AI leading to more and more intelligent machines being integrated into everyday life, nations have begun to regulate and legislate to allow for the safe development and use of AI.
It is more than likely that your business already uses or will begin to use AI so it is imperative that you and your business stays in the know about what action must be taken to remain compliant with new or upcoming law in this area and to get the most out of the opportunities AI offers.
As part of this 4-part series of articles, we will be providing:
- an overview of the emerging approaches taken by different jurisdictions towards the regulation of AI and what the UK’s approach means for your business.
- Data protection issues arising from your business’s use of AI, and
- the issues your business faces in relation to its intellectual property rights relating to the use of AI.
For further information on the legal implications of Artificial Intelligence and how it may impact your business, please do not hesitate to get in contact at dean.drew@LA-law.com or 0330 0539 759.
Other articles in the series:
