Sora AI could be the future of creativity, but Europe must wait
By Anni Rissanen. Read: 2 min 15 s
A revolutionary tool with limitless potential?
A ground-breaking invention from OpenAI, Sora AI, which enables people to create minute-long, very lifelike videos using simple text prompts, was launched on the 9th of December 2024. Its uses open up new creative opportunities in fields including marketing, education, entertainment, and more. Yet, despite its potential, this tool remains unavailable in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the UK due to the strict AI regulations that are set in place.
Why Sora AI is unavailable in Europe
Sora AI’s absence in Europe following its introduction is due to the Union’s robust regulatory landscape, particularly the recently implemented AI Act. As the EU’s first regulatory framework for artificial intelligence, the AI Act ensures the ethical and secure development of AI technologies by imposing strict requirements on high-risk systems and by outright banning certain harmful practices.
In order to introduce Sora AI to Europe, OpenAI must overcome these obstacles that still exist. To meet the strict requirements put in place by the EU AI Act, compliance requires a thorough review. Firstly, Sora AI must comply with the strict regulations surrounding data privacy, such as the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to ensure the protection of user data and image rights. Concerns regarding unethical use, like the production of deepfakes or the dissemination of misinformation, also need to be addressed by the developers. Therefore, Sora AI is off-limits from European users until these requirements are met.
Regulation as a catalyst for innovation
Although Europe's cautious approach to AI may appear restricting, it presents a unique opportunity to influence responsible innovation going forward. The EU AI Act fosters an environment where safety and ethics take precedence, encouraging the development of AI systems that align with fair and positive societal norms, values and practices.
Furthermore, this regulatory landscape demands adaptability and creativity from businesses. As companies attempt to manage their endeavors in this complicated regulatory landscape, opportunities for professionals with experience in ethical AI design and AI governance will grow. Additionally, knowing how Europe's strategy differs from international norms offers an important perspective for working in global settings.
A path forward
A timeline for adaptation is provided by the EU AI Act's phased implementation, which is scheduled to be fully implemented by 2026. When technologies like Sora AI eventually make it to Europe, this phased implementation guarantees that they will respect the ethical and safety norms of the continent. This delay strategy establishes Europe as a global leader in ethical AI innovation, even though it may momentarily restrict access to ground-breaking technologies.
By aligning AI advancements with societal values, Europe sets a benchmark for responsible technological progress. In addition to demonstrating its revolutionary potential, Sora AI’s eventual release will hopefully demonstrate a dedication to using AI for the benefit of society. This well-rounded strategy is an important first step in ensuring a future in which safety, justice, and societal benefit coexist with AI progress.
