Navigating Emerging Technology Regulations: A Unified Approach

A comprehensive, evergreen regulatory approach to emerging technologies such as AI, Web3, and robotics is essential for fostering innovation, ensuring safety, and building global trust in technology. As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, we find ourselves in a unique situation where regulations are struggling to keep up. The rapid evolution of computational power has surpassed Moore’s law, with capabilities doubling every six months instead of every two years. This acceleration presents both opportunities and challenges for regulators.

The EU Artificial Intelligence Act: A Case Study

The EU Artificial Intelligence Act, which came into force in August 2024, is already facing criticism for falling behind the curve. Initially drafted in April 2021, the act did not account for the emergence of generative AI (GenAI) and foundation models, which have since gained significant traction. Article 28b was added to the act in June 2023, following the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 and the subsequent proliferation of chatbot deployments. This reactive approach highlights the difficulties regulators face in anticipating technological advancements.

Addressing the Limitations of GenAI

As we delve deeper into robotics and the use of virtual reality devices, we are entering a “new paradigm of AI architectures.” This shift aims to address the limitations of GenAI, enabling the creation of robots and virtual devices capable of reasoning about the world in ways that current GenAI models cannot. However, the question remains: was the time spent drafting a new article on GenAI truly well spent?

The Dichotomy of Technology Regulations

Technology regulations today are often dichotomized, with separate frameworks for AI, Web3, and digital information security. For instance, the EU AI Act governs AI technologies, while the Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation addresses Web3. Additionally, the EU Cybersecurity Act and The Digital Operational Resilience Act focus on the security of digital information. This fragmented approach can be cumbersome for users and businesses, creating confusion and misalignment with the integrated nature of modern technological solutions.

Integrating Multiple Technologies

Consider products like the Apple Vision Pro or Meta Quest, which combine hardware, goggles, AI, biometric technology, cloud computing, cryptography, and digital wallets. These products are on the verge of integrating Web3 technology, demonstrating that most solutions require the interplay of several emerging technologies. If each technology component is governed by separate regulations, how can we ensure that a product or service remains compliant? Where does one regulation begin and another end?

Having distinct guidelines for each technology could lead to increased complexity, errors, and misinterpretations, ultimately resulting in more harm than good. If the implementation of technologies is comprehensive and all-encompassing, then the regulatory approach should mirror that complexity.

Creating Synergy Between AI and Web3

For example, AI can enhance Web3 by improving the accuracy and efficiency of smart contract execution and bolstering blockchain security and monitoring. Conversely, blockchain technology can contribute to “responsible AI,” as it embodies qualities that AI often lacks—transparency, traceability, trustworthiness, and tamper-proof characteristics. When AI and blockchain support each other, we can develop comprehensive, safe, secure, and trustworthy solutions.

Challenges of Compliance

This raises an important question: would these solutions be classified as AI-compliant or Web3-compliant? With such integrated solutions, it becomes increasingly challenging to delineate compliance boundaries. Instead, the solution should adhere to all relevant guidelines and policies, promoting a holistic approach to regulation.

The Need for a Unified Regulatory Framework

To effectively navigate the complexities of emerging technologies, we must advocate for a unified regulatory framework that encompasses all aspects of technology. This framework should not only address the unique characteristics of each technology but also recognize their interdependencies. By fostering collaboration between regulators, technologists, and industry stakeholders, we can create an environment that encourages innovation while ensuring safety and compliance.

In conclusion, as we continue to witness the rapid evolution of technology, it is imperative that our regulatory approaches evolve in tandem. A comprehensive, evergreen regulatory framework for emerging technologies like AI, Web3, and robotics will not only support innovation but also ensure safety and build global trust in technology. The time for a unified approach is now, as we stand on the brink of a technological revolution that will shape our future.