Stephenson Harwood AI podcast series
A podcast series from law firm Stephenson Harwood examining artificial intelligence and its implications for business. It covers AI fundamentals, evolving regulatory frameworks, and practical applications across industries. Episodes are aimed at technology leaders, compliance officers, executives, and consultants who need to understand and use AI responsibly. The series also considers how AI is shaping business and society.
Episodes
AI and Competition law: navigating the regulatory landscape
How does competition law apply to machine intelligence? This podcast explores how AI is reshaping markets, challenging regulators and redefining fair competition in the digital age.
Deep-dive on high-risk AI obligations: accuracy
In this episode, we focus on the accuracy requirements under the EU AI Act for high-risk AI systems. Our discussion considers what "accuracy" means in the context of AI models, and different ways of thinking about how a model can be accurate or inaccurate in its outputs, as well as looking at different approaches that the Commission might take, in upcoming guidance, to specifying how the
Limited and Minimal Risk AI – transparency obligations
In this episode, we turn our attention to the transparency obligations imposed on providers and deployers of limited and minimal risk AI systems under the EU AI Act. While these systems may not pose the same level of concern as high-risk AI, they are still subject to important requirements (particularly around informing users when they are interacting with AI, ensuring compliance in AI generated d
High-risk AI systems and exceptions overview
In this episode, we examine high-risk AI systems under the EU AI Act and the specific exceptions that apply. We'll discuss the criteria defining high-risk categories, the compliance obligations for these systems, and the safeguards businesses must adopt. We also explore scenarios where certain high-risk requirements may not apply, clarifying how exceptions function within the Act, and detaili
AI and litigation
In this episode, we explore how artificial intelligence can generate litigation, in particular, in the field of data protection and cybersecurity. We discuss the use of personal data in training and deploying AI models, litigation arising from the alleged improper use of AI, cybersecurity threats and AI models, and AI as a litigation tool.
Deep-dive on high-risk AI obligations: risk management
In this episode, we focus on the risk management requirements for high-risk AI systems under the EU AI Act. Our discussion highlights practical approaches in identifying, assessing, and mitigating AI-related risks while emphasising transparency, accountability, and compliance. We also explore how organisations can align their risk management frameworks with regulatory expectations, and the role of
AI and employment
In this episode, we explore how AI is reshaping the job market, with certain roles disappearing and new ones emerging. We discuss the evolving skill sets required and the risks of bias and discrimination in AI-driven recruitment. Emphasising the importance of compliance, we highlight the need for diverse data sets and responsible AI integration, ensuring organisations mitigate legal risks while pr
AI and the environment - how effective is the EU AI Act likely to be
Bobbie Bickerton and Mark Lewis, of Stephenson Harwood's commercial, technology and data team, discuss the impact of AI, in particular AI compute and data centres, on the environment and sustainability. They consider what the AI Act says about the environment and sustainability, and how effective it is likely to be in addressing these issues. They briefly raise the wider ongoing pressures of
AI – explaining the basics
Head of innovation, Paul Orchard, and Bobbie Bickerton an associate in the technology and data team, discuss exactly what AI is, what all those acronyms mean, and if AI will result in the end of the world.
General-purpose AI and obligations
In this episode, we explore the obligations for providers of general-purpose AI models under the EU AI Act. We examine the definition of general-purpose AI, the systemic risks associated with these models, and the key obligations for providers, such as technical documentation, compliance with copyright laws, and cooperation with the AI Office. We also discuss some practical tips on ensuring compli
Enforcement under the EU AI Act
In this episode of the Stephenson Harwood AI Series, we provide an overview of the enforcement regime under the EU AI Act, covering the roles and powers of the regulators, and the fines. We discuss the centralised and decentralised approach to enforcement taken by the EU Commission and issues around consistency. For further insights, see our article:The EU AI Act: enforcement overview.
Contracting for AI system and for services embedded with AI
In this episode, we provide an overview of key legal issues when contracting for AI systems, including the procurement approach and contract structure, managing data and intellectual property, and ensuring robust security measures are in place. We also discuss performance standards, SLAs, compliance with AI regulations, and the importance of a well-defined exit strategy to avoid vendor lock-in.
Authorised representatives under the EU AI Act
In this episode, we delve into the role of authorised representatives under the EU AI Act. We discuss the concept and role of an authorised representative, the extraterritorial reach of their obligations, their integration into business practices, and their compliance responsibilities. For further insights, see our article: The Role of the Authorised Representative under the EU AI Act
AI value and supply chain
In this episode, we explore the different roles and responsibilities of participants in the AI Value Chain under the EU AI Act. Our discussion covers: the key roles defined by the AI Act, including providers, deployers, importers, and distributors; the specific obligations and responsibilities imposed on importers and distributors of high-risk AI systems; as well as how the AI Act addresses change
Prohibited AI – examples
In this episode of the Stephenson Harwood AI Series, we explore the dark side of artificial intelligence—AI systems that are banned under the EU AI Act for posing an "unacceptable risk." These systems exploit human vulnerabilities, manipulate behaviour, or exhibit “creepy” characteristics, such as intrusive biometric surveillance or social scoring. We'll also examine the reasoning b
What is AI literacy
In this episode of the Stephenson Harwood AI Series, we delve into the concept of AI literacy under the EU AI Act and its growing importance in today's digital world. We discuss what AI literacy means, what the requirement means under the AI Act, and how organisations should approach the requirement. Whether you're new to AI or looking to enhance your knowledge, this episode provides val
EU AI Act overview – who, what, when
In this episode of the Stephenson Harwood AI Series, we provide a comprehensive overview of the EU AI Act. Join us as we break down the key components of this ground-breaking regulation. We'll explore: Who: The stakeholders affected by the Act, including from deployers to providers. What: The core provisions and requirements of the Act, detailing what it aims to achieve and the obligations it
