Google Delays Bard AI's EU Launch Due to Privacy Concerns

Europeans eager to use Google Bard will need to wait. The Irish Data Protection Commission (IDPC), the primary data authority in the European Union, has halted the rollout of Bard in the region. Originally scheduled for launch this week, Google has been asked to delay due to a lack of a detailed privacy briefing, data impact assessment, and supporting information, as stated by IDPC Deputy Commissioner Graham Doyle. The Commission is currently conducting an in-depth examination of Bard and has not provided an estimated timeline for its completion, although it intends to share findings with other EU data regulators promptly.

In a statement, a Google representative emphasized the company's commitment to expanding Bard access "responsibly." This involves engaging with experts and government privacy regulators to address their concerns and gather feedback.

Google began broadening access to Bard in March by allowing users to join a waiting list. By May, the company removed the waitlist, extending availability to 180 additional countries and territories. However, concerns over compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) have caused caution within the EU, related to stringent personal data collection and sharing rules.

Other AI developers have also encountered tightened scrutiny, with Germany, Italy, and Spain investigating OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Italy even implemented a temporary ban due to concerns that both the chatbot and its training methods could infringe on GDPR regulations. Delaying the launch of Bard may help Google avoid similar regulatory challenges.