Google revises AI ethics policy, dropping ban on weapons and surveillance use

Wednesday 05 February 2025 - 07:36

Google has updated its AI ethics policy, removing its previous commitment not to use artificial intelligence for weapons or surveillance purposes. In its earlier "AI Principles," the company had pledged to avoid AI technologies that could cause harm, particularly in areas like weaponry and surveillance that violate global norms. However, the revised policy, announced recently, emphasizes that Google will develop AI "responsibly" while adhering to "widely accepted principles of international law and human rights."

In a blog post, Demis Hassabis, Chief of Google DeepMind, and James Manyika, Senior Vice President of Research Labs, explained that they believe democracies should lead AI development, guided by values such as freedom, equality, and human rights. They also emphasized that companies, governments, and organizations should collaborate to create AI that enhances global growth and supports national security.

Google’s AI ethics journey dates back to 2018 when it first released its AI principles following employee protests over its involvement in the US Department of Defense’s Project Maven, which used AI to assist military drone strikes. In response to employee concerns and resignations, Google decided not to renew its Pentagon contract and also pulled out of a $10 billion cloud computing deal with the Department of Defense.

The revised policy comes in the wake of significant changes in the political landscape, including the January 20 inauguration of US President Joe Biden, followed by the rescinding of an executive order by the previous administration. This order had mandated that companies developing AI share safety test results with the government before public release.