Microsoft President Brad Smith calls for global safety regulations for AI, arguing that milk and washing machines currently face more stringent safety standards

Your AI tools may soon be subject to mandatory safety audits and incident reporting requirements.

Microsoft President Brad Smith has called for global safety regulations for artificial intelligence, asserting that current AI development is less regulated than everyday items like milk and washing machines. Smith specifically advocated for legal obligations to inform victims if their systems are compromised by rogue AI agents. He also proposed that independent government evaluators should approve AI products before their release, drawing parallels to existing safety protocols for other consumer goods. These statements contrast with those of some political leaders who favor self-regulation to maintain a competitive edge, particularly against rivals like China. Smith emphasized the need for 'emergency brakes' or 'kill switches' within AI systems to halt or slow down runaway processes and insisted on mandatory incident reports for any AI malfunctions.

Smith's proposal signifies a growing industry consensus that self-regulation is insufficient for powerful AI technologies, particularly concerning safety and potential misuse. The call for mandatory incident reports and victim notification suggests a future where companies are legally liable for AI failures, shifting the burden from solely user error to systemic responsibility. This could significantly increase development costs and legal risks for AI providers, potentially slowing down rapid deployment but enhancing user trust and safety.

The push for external government evaluators and global safety standards indicates a potential standardization of AI development and deployment processes. This could lead to a more controlled and predictable AI landscape, but also presents challenges for innovation and rapid iteration, especially for smaller companies lacking the resources for extensive compliance. Companies that are proactive in implementing safety measures may gain a competitive advantage in a regulated market.