The parent company of Google has abandoned its longstanding principle by lifting a ban on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for creating weapons and surveillance technologies. Alphabet has revised its AI usage guidelines, removing a section that had previously prohibited applications deemed "likely to cause harm. " In a blog post, Google defended the change, asserting that businesses and democratic governments should collaborate on AI initiatives that "support national security. " Experts suggest that AI could be extensively utilized on the battlefield, although there are significant concerns regarding its application, particularly concerning autonomous weapon systems. According to the blog, Google emphasized that democracies ought to lead AI development, adhering to "core values" such as freedom, equality, and respect for human rights. "We believe that companies, governments, and organizations that share these values should collaborate to develop AI that safeguards individuals, fosters global prosperity, and reinforces national security, " the post stated. The blog, authored by senior vice president James Manyika and Demis Hassabis, head of Google DeepMind, acknowledged that the original AI principles released in 2018 require updates due to advancements in technology. However, there is an ongoing debate among AI experts and professionals about how this powerful new technology should be regulated, the extent to which commercial interests should influence its course, and the best strategies for mitigating risks to humanity. Controversy also surrounds the application of AI in military operations and surveillance tools.

The greatest concerns center on the possibility of AI-controlled weapons capable of autonomous lethal action, with advocates arguing that immediate regulations are necessary. The Doomsday Clock—symbolizing the proximity of humanity to destruction—cited this concern in its latest evaluation of global dangers. "AI systems incorporated in military targeting have been deployed in Ukraine and the Middle East, with several countries advancing efforts to integrate AI into their armed forces, " it noted. "Such initiatives raise critical questions about the degree to which machines will be permitted to make military decisions, including those that could result in large-scale fatalities, " it continued. Catherine Connolly from the organization Stop Killer Robots echoed these concerns: "The significant financial investments being made into autonomous weapons and AI targeting systems are deeply troubling, " she told The Guardian.