Technology remains at the forefront of policy discussions in Washington, DC. Below we provide updates on AI policymaking and Microsoft’s progress toward completing its acquisition of video game developer Activision Blizzard. Stay current on tech policy headlines by signing up for VFI’s weekly Executive Briefing newsletter.
At White House, Tech Leaders Make Commitments to Responsible AI
On July 21 at a White House event, Microsoft and six other AI leaders made voluntary commitments developed by the Biden-Harris Administration to advance safe, secure, and trustworthy AI. This is an important step on the road to unlocking the promise of AI while addressing the risks of this emerging technology. Congress is expected to focus on developing AI legislation in the fall. Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith discussed this development in a blog post, “Our commitments to advance safe, secure, and trustworthy AI.” For additional information, see this White House Fact Sheet and coverage from CNN.
A Policy Path to Expanding the Study and Use of AI
While AI has the potential to help advance science and address many societal challenges, it requires access to tremendous computational power and data resources. A federally supported National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) would help increase access for researchers, academia, non-profits, and small businesses to the infrastructure needed for AI work. Recently, a group of leading universities and technology companies, including Microsoft, sent a letter to congressional leaders calling for legislation to create the NAIRR. The letter is a follow-up to the NAIRR Task Force report, issued earlier this year.
U.S. Courts Rule in Microsoft’s Favor
Last month, a U.S. District Court and a Court of Appeals ruled against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its attempt to block Microsoft’s acquisition of video game company Activision Blizzard. Microsoft and Activision Blizzard extended the deadline of their merger agreement until October 18. The two companies are now working to address concerns raised by regulators in the UK.
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