Bill Gates warns about AI risks: “Governments are far behind in this regard”

Bill Gates warns that no government in the world is prepared for the profound changes artificial intelligence will bring to society. In an interview with Reuters, the Microsoft co-founder called on countries to work together to limit risks related to jobs, attacks and dependence on so-called AI “companions.”

Gates says governments are far behind when it comes to regulating and understanding the technology. He has discussed these concerns with U.S. leaders, including Donald Trump, and intends to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. The billionaire compared the development of AI to the plot of a disaster movie, in which rival states are forced to cooperate.

Despite the warnings, Gates believes artificial intelligence can reduce global inequalities, particularly in healthcare, education and agriculture. His foundation plans to invest at least $1 billion over the next two years to expand access to AI and develop data infrastructure, including models capable of operating in all spoken languages.