Microsoft President Brad Smith calls for mandatory AI safety regulations

Microsoft President Brad Smith is calling for mandatory international regulations and oversight for artificial intelligence, arguing that current AI development lacks sufficient safety controls. Smith noted that everyday consumer goods, such as milk and washing machines, are subject to stricter safety standards and inspections than AI systems.

To mitigate risks, Smith proposed several regulatory measures, including the implementation of ‘kill switches’ to stop or slow down systems that become uncontrollable. He also advocated for mandatory laws requiring companies to report incidents and notify individuals harmed by malfunctioning AI. Furthermore, he suggested that new technologies should undergo evaluations by independent experts before being released to the public.

Smith’s stance contrasts with the approach favored by Donald Trump, who has supported industry self-regulation to ensure American companies maintain a competitive advantage over China. Smith highlighted the United Kingdom’s AI Safety Institute as a potential leader in establishing these global technical standards.