Microsoft president Brad Smith told the BBC that artificial intelligence needs urgent global regulation, arguing that AI currently operates under fewer safety rules than everyday household products.
"Right now, your washing machine is subject to more safety rules than AI," Smith said. "Every carton of milk you see in the grocery store is subject to safety rules and inspection."
Smith called for independent evaluators to assess AI systems, mandatory incident reporting, and an "emergency brake" — a mechanism to halt AI systems when they pose serious risk. The remarks are among the strongest yet from a top tech executive on the need for binding international AI rules, landing as governments around the world race to set their own frameworks.