Google has revised its artificial intelligence (AI) principles, removing a commitment not to use AI for weapons development or applications that could cause harm.
Previously, the company’s guidelines explicitly stated that it would not pursue AI projects related to weapons or surveillance that violate international norms. However, this section has now been replaced with a broader statement on “responsible development and deployment.”
Google’s updated AI principles now emphasize human oversight, due diligence, feedback mechanisms, and alignment with international law and human rights.
In a blog post, Google executives James Manyika and Demis Hassabis explained the need for an update, stating that AI has evolved significantly since the principles were first introduced in 2018.
“Billions of people are using AI in their everyday lives. AI has become a general-purpose technology, as pervasive as mobile phones and the internet,” they wrote.
They also acknowledged growing global competition in AI within a complex geopolitical landscape, adding, “We believe democracies should lead in AI development, guided by core values like freedom, equality, and respect for human rights.”
Google’s past involvement in contracts providing technology to the U.S. and Israeli military has sparked internal employee protests, highlighting concerns over the ethical implications of AI in defense.
James Fisher, Chief Strategy Officer at AI firm Qlik, criticized Google’s decision, emphasizing the need for stronger AI governance.
“Changing or removing responsible AI policies raises concerns about accountability and ethical boundaries in AI deployment,” Fisher stated.
He urged countries like the UK to establish enforceable AI regulations, adding that the UK’s approach could set a global precedent for balancing innovation with ethical safeguards.
While international discussions on AI governance continue, no binding global regulations currently exist, leaving companies like Google to define their own ethical boundaries.
(dpa/NAN)
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