Former Google CEO and President, Eric Schmidt, believes that in the future, “extremely powerful” AI systems will be closely guarded by governments. Schmidt expressed this view in an interview with Noema magazine, stating that he anticipates a small number of highly advanced computers with autonomous invention capabilities that will exceed what unauthorized citizens or competitors should have access to. He envisions these computers being housed in secure military bases powered by nuclear energy sources and protected by barbed wire and machine guns.
Schmidt, who served as CEO and president of Google from 2001 to 2011, has since focused on studying the impact of AI on society. He has invested in AI startups, co-authored a book titled “The Age of AI,” and remains interested in exploring the risks and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence.
Despite the seemingly far-fetched nature of Schmidt’s prediction, there are already signs of competition between countries in the AI race. The United States has implemented stricter controls on technology exports to China, limiting the sale of AI chips from companies like NVIDIA. Similarly, China is working to reduce its reliance on US-made chips and has encouraged domestic tech giants to purchase locally manufactured AI chips instead.
This trend towards technological independence reflects a growing divide between the US and China in terms of their respective technology stacks. As countries seek to protect their technological advancements and maintain a competitive edge, the potential for governments to closely guard powerful AI systems seems increasingly likely.
In conclusion, Eric Schmidt’s warning about the future safeguarding of advanced AI systems by governments highlights the complex dynamics shaping the global AI landscape. As nations strive to assert dominance in the realm of artificial intelligence, the need for stringent security measures and strategic investments in AI development becomes more pronounced. Schmidt’s insights underscore the evolving nature of technology governance and the crucial role of policymakers in navigating the challenges posed by rapidly advancing AI capabilities.
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