Generative artificial intelligence
("AI") is poised to reshape the Canadian
legal and regulatory landscape in 2026. As the Canadian government
explores the domestic regulation of AI and businesses race to
leverage AI technology, Canadians will have to navigate a changing
terrain defined by both opportunity and heightened risk. This
article highlights five AI trends that deserve particular attention
in the year ahead, from the evolving regulatory landscape and
growing scrutiny of ownership of AI outputs to questions about
authorship, privacy and liability related to the use and misuse of
the novel technology.
1. Navigating AI Amid Legislative
Uncertainty
In June 2022, the Canadian government introduced Bill C-27,
which included the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act
("AIDA"), a national framework to
regulate AI systems in Canada's private sector. AIDA received
widespread criticism, including disapproval for using an
exclusionary consultation process and
