Artificial intelligence Archives | Page 25 of 670

HaDEA highlights EU digital projects for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day

The European Health and Digital Executive Agency has highlighted EU-funded projects supporting connectivity, AI skills, digital governance and data network innovation to mark World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.

Observed annually on 17 May, the day marks the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865 and the establishment of the International Telecommunication Union. This year’s edition focuses on connectivity, AI and digital innovation as tools for building more resilient, inclusive and sustainable societies.

HaDEA pointed to Nuanua, a CEF Digital-funded project improving connectivity and resilience in Wallis and Futuna, a French overseas territory in the South Pacific. The project will deploy ground infrastructure for Medium Earth Orbit satellites using O3b mPOWER technology to provide an alternative route to the territory’s single submarine cable connection.

The agency also highlighted EURIDICE, funded under the Digital Europe Programme, which supports advanced digital skills through interdisciplinary education combining AI, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, law, humanities and social sciences.

Another Digital Europe project, AI4GOV-X, focuses on helping public administrations use AI and digital technologies in a trustworthy way. It provides training and capacity-building for civil servants, policymakers and digital governance professionals working on AI-driven public services.

HaDEA also cited PUNCH, funded under Horizon Europe Cluster 4, which is developing optical switching technologies to improve the performance and efficiency of data networks. The project aims to reduce congestion, power consumption and transmission costs while supporting reliable, low-latency communications in industrial 5G and data centre testbeds.

Why does it matter?

The projects show how EU digital funding is being spread across different layers of digital transformation: connectivity infrastructure, advanced skills, public-sector AI capacity and more efficient data networks. Together, they reflect the EU’s effort to link digital innovation with inclusion, resilience and sustainability rather than treating connectivity and AI as separate policy areas.

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European Commission launches copyright consultation focused on AI

The European Commission has launched a call for evidence to gather views on whether EU copyright rules should be modernised in response to changes in the digital economy, including challenges linked to generative AI.

The consultation will assess the practical impact and effectiveness of the 2019 Directive on Copyright in the Digital Single Market, which updated EU rules on the use of copyright-protected content across digital platforms and online services. The Commission will examine whether the directive has facilitated the use of protected content in digital environments, improved licensing practices and supported a fairer copyright marketplace.

Rapid technological and market developments are reshaping the creative economy, with the Commission seeking views on how generative AI affects licensing, enforcement and the use of protected works. The review also covers online piracy, particularly of live events, remuneration for performers and producers of recorded music played in the EU, and access to and re-use of works for research purposes.

The call for evidence is open until 25 June and invites contributions from relevant stakeholders on both the review of the 2019 directive and a possible targeted legislative initiative on copyright. The process will be supported by an external study and a stakeholder survey.

Why does it matter?

Generative AI has intensified long-running copyright tensions between technology developers, creators, publishers and platforms. The consultation could influence how the EU approaches licensing, enforcement and the use of protected works in AI systems, while also shaping wider debates on creator remuneration and digital rights in Europe’s creative economy.

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Australia’s WGEA outlines AI transparency rules for internal use

Australia’s Workplace Gender Equality Agency has published an AI transparency statement outlining how it uses AI internally, in line with the Digital Transformation Agency’s Policy for the Responsible Use of AI in Government.

The agency uses AI to enhance workplace productivity and support internal service delivery processes, including case management, in a controlled and human-centred manner. It does not use AI for statutory decision-making, compliance determinations, auditing outcomes or enforcement actions.

Internally, AI helps staff manage and respond to enquiries using approved information sources. All outputs are reviewed and approved by WGEA staff before use, and AI-generated material remains advisory only.

The agency does not use AI systems to interact directly with the public or make decisions affecting individuals without human involvement. External communications are reviewed and issued by WGEA staff.

The statement notes that AI does not change WGEA’s accountability for the accuracy, quality or appropriateness of information provided. The agency also monitors usage levels, outcomes and reporting mechanisms to ensure systems operate as intended and align with responsible AI principles.

WGEA designated its Chief Operating Officer as the accountable official on 19 December 2024. The role is responsible for ensuring AI use complies with relevant legislation, whole-of-government policy and internal governance arrangements.

Why does it matter?

The statement shows how public bodies are beginning to formalise transparency around internal AI use, even when systems are not used for direct public interaction or decision-making. By limiting AI to advisory functions, requiring human review and naming an accountable official, WGEA is setting out a practical governance model for low-risk public-sector AI use.

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UNESCO highlights role of media literacy in the age of AI

The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning will host a webinar on media and information literacy in the age of AI, focusing on how youth, adults, and adult educators can respond to misinformation and changing digital environments.

The webinar, titled ‘From misinformation to empowerment – Media literacy for youth and adults in the age of AI’, will take place as part of UIL’s global webinar series, ‘Unlocking the power of lifelong learning’.

Organised with UNESCO’s Media and Information Unit within the Communication and Information Sector, the event will mark World Telecommunication and Information Society Day. It will bring together policymakers, researchers, and practitioners from countries of the Global Alliance for Literacy.

According to UIL, social media, algorithmic filtering, and generative AI are affecting how people access and evaluate information online. UIL said these technologies create new opportunities while also contributing to challenges related to misinformation and disinformation.

The UNESCO webinar will examine the role of media and information literacy in adult learning and education, with particular attention to adult educators. According to UIL, adult educators play a role in supporting critical thinking, media engagement, and digital competencies.

The event will also include the launch of a new multilingual self-learning course on media and information literacy for adult educators. The course will provide practical tools, examples, and strategies related to media and information literacy in digital environments.

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UK regulator updates online safety guidance on AI-generated intimate imagery

Ofcom has announced proposed measures intended to strengthen protections against illegal intimate image abuse online, including AI-generated explicit deepfakes and non-consensual image sharing.

The UK regulator said it is updating its Illegal Content Codes to recommend that certain online platforms use automated detection technologies to identify illegal intimate images.

According to Ofcom, hash matching systems convert images into digital identifiers that can help platforms detect repeated uploads of harmful content. Ofcom specifically referenced the StopNCII database as a recommended tool for platforms implementing the technology.

Ofcom said the measures are intended to improve protections against AI-generated intimate imagery and digitally manipulated sexual content.

The recommendations complement recent UK legislation addressing non-consensual intimate imagery and AI-enabled nudification tools.

Ofcom said the updated Illegal Content Codes are expected to enter into force in autumn 2026, subject to parliamentary approval. The regulator also said additional online safety measures under consultation may be announced later in the year.

The measures form part of the UK’s implementation of the Online Safety Act and related online safety obligations for digital platforms.

Why does it matter?

AI-generated deepfakes and synthetic sexual imagery are rapidly becoming major online safety and digital rights concerns globally. Regulators increasingly fear that existing moderation systems cannot keep pace with the scale and speed of AI-generated abuse. Ofcom’s decision illustrates how governments are beginning to shift towards mandatory or strongly encouraged proactive detection systems, particularly for highly harmful content involving intimate imagery, harassment, and exploitation.

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South Korea expands industrial policy support for AI manufacturing technologies

South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources announced plans to establish an industrial growth fund to support manufacturing AI transformation and other industrial policy initiatives over the next three years.

According to the ministry, private banks managing government research and development funds pledged combined anchor investments of 1.1 trillion won for the initiative, including 620 billion won from Hana Bank. The ministry said additional private-sector investment is expected to support the fund.

A M.AX innovation fund established under the initiative will support projects related to manufacturing AI transformation, including robotics, AI factories, mobility technologies, and autonomous vessels. According to the ministry, the government aims to raise 500 billion won for the sub-fund based on an initial 100 billion won anchor investment.

The ministry also signed a cooperation agreement with banks and related agencies to provide 700 billion won in financial support programmes, including technology guarantees and trade insurance, for companies participating in research and development projects.

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China pushes deeper AI integration with advanced manufacturing

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for deeper integration between AI and advanced manufacturing as China seeks to accelerate the intelligent upgrading of its industrial economy.

Li made the remarks during an inspection tour of technology companies in Beijing, where he was briefed on innovation and industrial development in intelligent robotics. He described intelligent robots as a key vehicle for integrating AI with advanced manufacturing.

The premier called for stronger basic research, breakthroughs in core technologies and further exploration at the frontier of intelligent robotics. He also urged faster innovation in complete machines, key components, and intelligent decision-making and control systems to support high-quality industrial development.

Li said China should make use of its large domestic market, complete industrial chains and wide range of application scenarios to expand the intelligent robotics sector. He also said enterprises should play a leading role in industrial transformation.

Companies were encouraged to advance intelligent upgrades across the full production process, including research and development, design, manufacturing, operations management and after-sales services.

Why does it matter?

The remarks show how China is positioning AI as part of industrial modernisation, not only as a digital services technology. By linking AI with robotics, manufacturing processes and enterprise-led upgrading, Beijing is reinforcing the role of intelligent systems in productivity, competitiveness and high-quality industrial growth.

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New Google programme targets environmental risks with frontier AI

Google DeepMind has launched an accelerator programme in the Asia Pacific aimed at helping startups, research teams and nonprofits use AI to address environmental challenges.

The three-month AI for the Planet programme will support organisations working on issues linked to nature, climate, agriculture, energy and other environmental risks. Google said selected teams will receive expert mentorship, tailored support and guidance from Google AI specialists on integrating frontier AI and science AI models into their projects or products.

The initiative is focused on the Asia Pacific, a region Google describes as both a major engine of economic growth and highly vulnerable to climate change. The company said green technologies are gaining momentum in the region but are not scaling fast enough to keep pace with rising environmental risks.

Selected participants will begin with an in-person bootcamp in Singapore, where they will work to refine their use cases and scale their climate and environmental solutions.

Why does it matter?

The programme reflects growing interest in applying frontier AI to environmental resilience, from climate modelling and nature protection to agriculture and energy systems. Its significance will depend on whether early-stage teams can turn AI research and tools into deployable solutions for regions facing rising climate and resource pressures.

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European Commission backs €5 billion fund for AI and deep tech

The European Commission has announced that the European Innovation Council Fund Board has selected EQT as the preferred investment adviser and fund manager for the new €5 billion Scaleup Europe Fund, an initiative designed to support European deep-tech scaleups.

According to the Commission, the fund will be the largest initiative of its kind launched in Europe and forms a central pillar of the EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy. It aims to provide late-stage growth capital for European companies operating in strategic technology sectors, including AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, clean technology, biotech, medical technologies, space and dual-use technologies.

European officials said the fund is intended to address the financing gap that has often pushed promising European scaleups to seek investment outside the continent. The aim is to help more high-growth technology firms remain headquartered and operational in Europe as they expand.

EQT was selected following what the Commission described as a competitive process focused on investment expertise, fundraising capability and operational experience in scaling technology companies.

The initiative is being developed alongside several major European institutional investors and financial organisations, including Novo Holdings, Allianz, CriteriaCaixa, ABP and Santander/Mouro Capital.

The Commission said legal agreements and investor approval processes are underway, with the Scaleup Europe Fund expected to begin investment operations in autumn 2026. The initiative will also be formally presented during the EIC Summit on 3 June 2026.

Why does it matter?

he fund reflects Europe’s concern that strategic technologies such as AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, biotechnology and space are increasingly tied to economic security and geopolitical influence. By creating a large European growth-capital vehicle, the EU policymakers are trying to reduce the pressure on scaleups to rely on foreign financing or relocate abroad, while strengthening Europe’s ability to retain innovation, industrial capacity and technological leadership.

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UK financial regulators highlight operational risks linked to frontier AI

Bank of England, Financial Conduct Authority and HM Treasury have issued a joint statement warning regulated firms about escalating cybersecurity risks associated with frontier AI models.

The authorities said current frontier AI systems already possess cyber capabilities that may exceed those of skilled practitioners in some areas while operating at greater speed and scale. According to the statement, malicious use of these capabilities could increase risks to financial stability, market integrity, customers, and firms’ operational resilience.

UK regulators warned that firms underinvesting in cybersecurity protections may face increased exposure as more advanced AI systems emerge. The statement said regulated firms and financial market infrastructures should strengthen resilience against AI-driven cyber threats.

The guidance highlighted several priority areas, including governance, vulnerability management, third-party and supply-chain risks, data protection, network security, and recovery planning. The authorities urged boards and senior management teams to improve their understanding of frontier AI cyber risks.

Bank of England, Financial Conduct Authority and HM Treasury also warned that frontier AI models could rapidly identify and exploit vulnerabilities across complex technology estates, forcing firms to accelerate patching, remediation, and threat-detection processes. Firms were encouraged to deploy automation and AI-enabled defensive tools capable of responding at a comparable speed to emerging AI-driven attacks.

The statement additionally emphasised growing risks linked to third-party providers, open-source software dependencies, and supply-chain exposure. Regulators said firms should strengthen capabilities to identify, monitor, and manage vulnerabilities linked to third-party providers and software dependencies.

The authorities confirmed they will continue monitoring AI developments and coordinating with industry through the Cross Market Operational Resilience Group.

Why does it matter?

The financial sector increasingly depends on interconnected digital infrastructure, cloud services, AI systems, and third-party software supply chains. Frontier AI could dramatically accelerate both offensive cyber capabilities and defensive security operations, creating a rapidly evolving threat environment where traditional cybersecurity practices may no longer be sufficient.

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