AI system
A machine-based system that infers from its inputs how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations or decisions.
Under the EU AI Act, an AI system is a machine-based system designed to operate with varying levels of autonomy, which may adapt after deployment and which infers from the input it receives how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. The OECD uses a closely aligned definition. The capacity to infer is what separates an AI system from fixed rule-based software, and it is what brings the Act's obligations into play.
Agent Minute explains this term on 5 October 2026.
Related terms
AI agentSoftware built on an AI model that pursues a set goal by planning steps and acting through tools or APIs, not only by answering.Large language modelA model trained on very large amounts of text to predict likely text, used by most agents to interpret instructions and choose steps.Level of autonomyHow far an agent acts without a person reviewing each step, from suggesting actions to acting alone within limits.High-risk AI systemAn AI system the EU AI Act classes as high-risk, such as credit scoring, which must meet strict requirements.