Microsoft president Brad Smith calls for more AI regulations.
Talk to BBC Newsthe executive noted that milk and washing machines are even more regulated than AI. To address these gaps, Smith called for global security rules that include legal requirements for companies to notify victims if they’ve been compromised by rogue AI agents, decisions regarding when outside evaluators should sign off on AI products before release and “emergency brakes” or “kill switches” should AI get out of control.
“Right now, your washing machine is subject to more safety rules than AI. Every carton of milk you see in the grocery store is subject to safety rules and inspection,” he said.
Notably, Smith’s comments come as US President Donald Trump is going all in on AI, trying to paint the technology in a positive light, while cozying up to Big Tech and even signing an executive order to rename it “super intelligence”. (Hilariously, he says that anyone who doesn’t use that made-up term is the “enemy.”) “Whoever AI wins, wins,” Trump said.
Furthermore, Smith’s comments come alongside calls for regulation and development brakes from other top AI companies over security concerns. However, these sudden security concerns have been fueled by nebulous notions of a future smart AI attacking humanity rather than the various actual, real harms of AI. You know, like the impact of data centers on the environment, or misinformation, or the many ways AI is used to scam people. Just to name a few.
While Smith undeniably has a point about a need for more protection around AI, it’s certainly funny to hear it coming from Microsoft’s top brass. After all, the Windows maker is one of the most AI-pilled companies in the world. It is unclear why Microsoft, if it is now apparently concerned about AI, did not push for regulations sooner with its immense resources.
“When you look at AI agents that have escaped human control, when you look at models that are so powerful that they endanger the cyber security of the world. I would say: The moment has arrived,” said Smith BBC News.
“Let’s talk quietly, maybe even softly, but firmly, and start bringing people together. I hope that’s the role we can play as a company.”
Image credit: Netflix