Google moves AI responsibility unit from DeepMind to global affairs

Google is transferring its 90-person “AI responsibility” unit from Google DeepMind to its global affairs organization, which manages lobbying and public policy. The unit is tasked with studying the psychological impacts of chatbots and the chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear risks associated with AI models.

The reorganization is part of an effort to integrate Google DeepMind more closely into Google’s broader structure, moving it away from the semi-autonomous status it has held since its acquisition in 2014. This follows a previous restructuring in August that saw DeepMind Co-founder and CEO Demis Hassabis transition into a chairman role.

Internal concerns have been raised by employees regarding the change in reporting structure. Some staff members expressed apprehension that the move could hamper the team’s ability to conduct independent research or reduce their insight into the development of the latest models. A Google spokesperson stated that bringing these teams closer together will strengthen their ability to inform safety for the company’s products and models.