In a recent interview with the BBC, Microsoft President Brad Smith advocated for a shift in how artificial intelligence is regulated. Smith highlighted a disparity between the oversight of AI and everyday consumer products, noting that items such as milk and washing machines are subject to more rigorous safety standards than advanced AI systems. He argued that the tech industry’s current reliance on self-regulation is no longer sufficient to manage the risks associated with rapidly evolving technology.

Smith acknowledged that the prospect of government agencies reviewing and approving AI products before they reach the market is a sensitive topic, particularly within the United States, where such oversight can be met with skepticism. Despite this, he emphasized that the scale and potential impact of AI necessitate a more structured approach to safety. While he did not provide a specific legislative roadmap, his comments signal a growing willingness among major tech leaders to accept external government intervention in the development and deployment of AI models. This stance marks a notable shift in the industry, which has historically favored voluntary guidelines over mandatory federal requirements.