Google at the UN Summit, announced that it established the Global AI Opportunity Fund, valued at US$120 million, gearing up to bridge the growing "AI divide" through AI education and training in underserved communities.
According to Google CEO Sundar Pichai, this move would bring a step toward ensuring that the ability of AI to be transformative can reach everyone. Above everything, it would target the capabilities of a marginalized community to close the gap in benefits accruing from the digital revolution while pushing for international inclusivity.
There are four areas in which AI could make a significant difference, so to speak," Pichai continues. "It's one in which access to information becomes possible and accessible in various languages, that scientific discoveries are accelerated, early warning systems for climate disasters are instituted, and economic growth in these currently underrepresented places is driven."
He believes that AI is "the most transformative technology yet," adding that it has the potential to improve lives and support sustainable development around the world.
But Pichai swiftly mentioned dangers in AI progress and how despite AI providing so much opportunity, it also brings about problems like deepfakes and misinformation that must be managed proactively.
This project is Google's work to bridge the "AI divide" around the world.
The company through the partnership with the local NGOs, non-profits, and the government will give the community education targeted resources that will empower people to leverage AI in solving local problems, encouraging innovation, and developing economic growth.
"We must ensure that AI education and training reach underserved areas, where the technology can offer life-changing opportunities," Pichai said.
There is a vital point that Pichai made about smart regulation in AI technologies. Pichai warned against overly restrictive and protectionist measures that may hold the promise of AI for unleashing its benefits worldwide. He called for balanced policies that may foster innovation as this happens, while at the same time protecting consumers and minimizing harm.
"We believe in responsible AI regulation that allows for its transformative potential while ensuring safety and fairness," he said, stressing that regulations should be designed to promote positive outcomes without stifling innovation.
The Google US$120 million fund is a clear example of a bigger commitment toward building up inclusivity in the digital age. It is to invest in AI education and resources, thus opening opportunities for participation and benefit from the AI revolution by everybody without geographical and socioeconomic barriers.
Pichai's vision communicates urgency by making sure that the benefits come about equitably across regions.
This move comes at a time when Adobe also made its AI for education available to students at affordable rates, making it yet another company joining the Global AI for Everyone mission started by Google.