SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son has rare cautionary note on AI safety

Masayoshi Son's uncharacteristic note of caution reflects an escalating concern about AI safety, particularly in the wake of recent security breaches by AI models. As a long-time proponent of AI and a significant investor, with nearly US$65 billion directed into OpenAI, his public worry highlights a shift in sentiment within the industry's leadership. This perspective suggests that the potential risks of advanced AI are gaining broader acknowledgment, even among those most invested in its development and deployment.

Son's call for countries to work together to control the threat from powerful AI models underscores a belief that AI safety is a global issue requiring collective action. He stated that humanity no longer has the "luxury of having human fight against human," framing AI as a common threat that should unite nations. This sentiment was echoed by the presence of White House science and tech policy adviser Michael Kratsios, who announced a 17-country initiative to accelerate scientific research using AI, suggesting a coordinated international approach is already taking shape.

Despite his cautionary remarks, Son reiterated his long-term optimistic projections for AI's economic impact, forecasting that AI and machines with learning capabilities could account for at least 20 per cent of global GDP by 2040, equivalent to US$46 trillion. He also described the rapid, exponential growth of AI capabilities, noting its progression from browsing and coding to interacting with the physical world starting next year. This simultaneous acknowledgment of immense potential and significant risk frames the current challenge for AI development.