Meta Platforms has announced its decision not to sign the European Union's voluntary code of practice for artificial intelligence, expressing concerns that the EU is 'heading down the wrong path on AI.' The code, which aims to provide guidelines for general-purpose AI model providers, is intended to help companies comply with the upcoming AI Act. Meta's global affairs chief, Joel Kaplan, stated that the code introduces legal uncertainties and goes beyond the scope of the AI Act, which is set to come into effect soon.

The refusal to sign the EU's AI code comes as the EU prepares to enforce regulations that require transparency and compliance from AI providers. Meta's stance reflects broader industry concerns about the potential stifling of AI innovation in Europe, as echoed by over 45 companies urging the EU to delay the implementation of the AI Act. This decision may position Meta favorably in the U.S. market, where regulatory approaches to AI are less stringent, potentially giving it a competitive edge over European firms.