AI is less regulated than milk, says Microsoft president (www.bbc.com)

Microsoft President Brad Smith has recently highlighted the alarming lack of regulation surrounding artificial intelligence (AI), claiming that even everyday items like milk and washing machines have stricter safety rules. In a conversation with the BBC, Smith advocated for the establishment of global safety standards for AI, including mandatory incident reporting for AI breaches and independent evaluations prior to product launches. He described AI as both a "tool and a weapon," emphasizing the urgent need for regulatory measures to ensure its safe deployment in society. Smith's call for regulation comes amidst rising concerns within the AI community regarding the technology's potential risks to humanity. He proposed that the UK could lead the way in creating these global standards, particularly after the establishment of the AI Security Institute. Contrasting with the self-regulatory approach favored by some U.S. officials, Smith argues that a comprehensive regulatory framework is essential to address the risks posed by unregulated AI development. His comments underline the critical need for actionable guidelines to mitigate the threat of rogue AI while ensuring the technology is utilized responsibly and safely.