Is Big Tech's AI slowdown a safety pact or a cartel? (www.theverge.com)

In a recent informal agreement among AI industry leaders, including Sam Altman of OpenAI and Elon Musk, major tech companies have pledged to slow down AI development in an effort to prioritize safety. This proposal includes installing third-party auditors and potentially regulating domestic labs, a response to escalating concerns about the rapid advancement of AI technologies and implications like Recursive Self-Improvement (RSI), which could lead to superintelligent systems. Critics, however, argue that this pact may serve as a facade to suppress competition and hinder the open-source movement, with some labeling it a potential cartel. The significance of this agreement lies in its potential to shift the conversation around AI safety, showcasing an industry grappling with its own advancements amid growing fears of unchecked technological power. Experts note that the concerns raised by employees like Jacob Coxon, who warned of AI's existential risks, have prompted calls for responsible practices that reflect a genuine commitment to safety rather than merely strategic maneuvering. While the commitment to slowing down AI may reflect a step forward, experts caution that the proposed measures must translate into concrete action, as the fear of safety-washing looms large. Additionally, the dynamics of international competition, particularly with China, complicate the landscape, raising questions about whether a truly coordinated global effort towards AI safety is feasible.