General Purpose AI Systems in the AI Act: Trying to Fit a Square Peg Into a Round Hole
The AI Act, initially overlooking multifunctional AI like foundation models, led to debates. Industry sought exemption, civil groups pushed for inclusion, foreseeing safety gaps and burdens on users. "General Purpose AI systems" (GPAIS) emerged in discussions, aiming to extend Act requirements to adaptable models, addressing operator responsibility. Current debate focuses on adapting the Act to cover these advanced AI, revealing its initial limitations. The paper will delve into this evolution, highlighting challenges and proposing policy adjustments for GPAIS regulation within the AI Act's framework.