Microsoft President Brad Smith: In the dynamic landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) development, Microsoft President Brad Smith recently addressed concerns and projections regarding the creation of super-intelligent AI. Dismissing the possibility of such an advancement within the next 12 months, Smith suggested that realizing a state where computers surpass human capabilities could take years, if not decades.
The context for these statements arises in the wake of the recent leadership shuffle at OpenAI, a prominent player in the AI research and development sphere. Sam Altman, OpenAI’s co-founder and former CEO, faced a brief removal from his position following concerns raised by researchers. Reports indicate that the ouster occurred shortly after the board received warnings about a potential breakthrough in an internal project named Q* (pronounced Q-Star).
This project at OpenAI is believed by some to hold the potential for a significant breakthrough in the pursuit of artificial general intelligence (AGI). AGI, as defined by OpenAI, refers to autonomous systems that surpass humans in a broad spectrum of economically valuable tasks. However, Smith remains cautious and rejects claims of a dangerous breakthrough.
During a conversation with reporters in Britain, Smith stated, “There’s absolutely no probability that you’re going to see this so-called AGI, where computers are more powerful than people, in the next 12 months. It’s going to take years, if not many decades, but I still think the time to focus on safety is now.”
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The focal point of the disagreement leading to Altman’s temporary removal is a matter of concern among researchers, especially regarding the potential risks associated with technological advancements. Reports suggest that the OpenAI board faced concerns not only about the possible breakthrough but also about the pace at which advances were being commercialized without a thorough assessment of their potential risks.
When questioned about the connection between the internal project’s warnings and Altman’s removal, Smith asserted, “I don’t think that is the case at all. I think there obviously was a divergence between the board and others, but it wasn’t fundamentally about a concern like that.”
Despite downplaying the connection, Smith underscored the importance of safety measures in AI systems, drawing analogies to safety brakes in various real-world contexts. He emphasized the necessity of incorporating safety mechanisms in AI systems controlling critical infrastructure to ensure they always remain under human control.
The debate surrounding the advancement of AI and the need for comprehensive safety protocols remains a critical and ongoing discussion within the tech industry. As technological capabilities evolve, industry leaders like Smith continue to advocate for a cautious and measured approach to ensure the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
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Who is Microsoft’s top lawyer?
Brad Smith, Microsoft’s chief legal officer, earned $18.1 million in the company’s most recent fiscal year. This represents a 23% decrease from the $23.4 million he earned in the previous year. Despite the drop in compensation, Smith remains a highly valued member of the Microsoft team.
Who is the lawyer in the Microsoft CEO?
Brad Smith, the Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, leads the company’s efforts and serves as its public face on a range of crucial topics at the intersection of technology and society. These include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, privacy, environmental sustainability, and human welfare. With his expertise and experience, Smith is responsible for driving Microsoft’s work in these areas and ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of innovation while also addressing the ethical and social implications of its technology.
Who is Brad Smith short note?
John Smith, an accomplished American businessman, previously served as the CEO of Intuit for a decade, from 2008 to 2018. Recently, on October 28, 2021, he was appointed as the president of Marshall University, where he had previously studied. This is a significant achievement for Smith, who has now come full circle in his career, returning to his alma mater to lead and inspire the next generation of students.
Who is the vice chairman and president of Microsoft?
Brad Smith is a prominent figure in the tech industry, having served as the President of Microsoft and the Chairman of LinkedIn. With his extensive experience and expertise, he has played a key role in shaping the direction of these companies and driving innovation in the field. As a leader in the industry, he has been recognized for his contributions and has received numerous awards and accolades. His insights and perspectives are highly valued by his peers and colleagues, and he continues to be a driving force in the world of technology.