By Claire Moraa
- Google’s updated AI Principles is missing a previous commitment to not use AI for weapons and surveillance
- The global AI market is projected to reach $1.3T by 2032
Well, that was short-lived. Google (GOOG -3.19%) just hit the CTRL + Z buttons on a previous pledge to refrain from using AI in weapon development and surveillance. The dangers of allowing AI to surveil people without their consent are far reaching. With AI racial biases is law enforcement already picking up the pace and heavily affecting the minorities, this could be a major blowback that exacerbates the misuse of technology to infringe on people’s rights.
Why This Matters: We’re living in dangerous times. AI is developing and evolving at unprecedented rates but unfortunately, laws and regulations cannot keep up with the pace. This change raises concerns about the potential misuse of AI technology for military applications and surveillance purposes, which could have far-reaching implications for privacy and security. While it’s still to early to know whether these implications will be good or bad, Google says these changes are for the greater good to help humanity address its most pressing challenges and opportunities.
From a business perspective, Google is broadening the scope as it once missed out on a $10 billion deal to share its data for cloud computing as it did not align with its values. Now, the company is playing catch-up with tech giants like Microsoft and gain its footing in the AI world especially with the AI market projected to reach $1.3 trillion by 2032. Re-aligning its values is to make sure it doesn’t miss out on this huge piece of cake.
Situational Awareness: As it is, the updated AI principles are vague at best. The scope of Google’s involvement in projects that might involve weapon development or surveillance initiatives are yet to be seen. However, moving forward, it will be important to closely monitor how these changes will play out. Will other companies join in? Microsoft already put the brakes on police using its AI features but could this be an opportunity to revise their terms?
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