The European Commission has launched two separate requests for feedback on competition within the realms of virtual worlds and generative artificial intelligence (AI).
In a press release issued by the European Commission, it is stated that the commission is inviting stakeholders to share their experiences and provide insights on competition law and its role in both the virtual worlds and generative AI markets. The objective of these calls is to gather information that can help maintain competition in these rapidly evolving sectors. The deadline for submitting feedback is March 11, 2024. Following a thorough review of all submissions, the commission may organise a workshop in Q2 2024 to consolidate various viewpoints.
As per the press release from the European Commission, it characterises generative AI systems and virtual worlds as "disruptive technologies" that hold immense potential but also pose significant risks. The commission defines virtual worlds as "persistent, immersive environments, based on technologies including 3D and extended reality (XR), which make it possible to blend physical and digital worlds in real-time." Generative AI systems are described as those that "generate, in response to a user prompt, synthetic audio, image, video or text content."
In addition to this, according to another statement from the European Commission's press release, investigations are underway into several recent agreements between large digital market players and generative AI companies. The aim is to understand the impact of these partnerships on market dynamics.
Margrethe Vestager, the commission’s executive vice-president in charge of competition policy said in the press release: "Virtual worlds and generative AI are rapidly developing. It is fundamental that these new markets stay competitive, and that nothing stands in the way of businesses growing and providing the best and most innovative products to consumers. We are inviting businesses and experts to tell us about any competition issues that they may perceive in these industries while also closely monitoring AI partnerships to ensure they do not unduly distort market dynamics."
