Google Removes Ban on AI Weapons Development from Its Principles

Google has updated its artificial intelligence (AI) principles, removing the clause that prohibited the use of AI in weapons development and surveillance systems. The revised principles were published on the company’s official website, as first reported by Bloomberg.

Previously, Google had explicitly stated that it would not participate in creating technologies that could harm people, including those intended for military use. Now, the section outlining AI principles no longer includes the prohibition against developing weapons or surveillance technologies using AI algorithms.

In response to media inquiries, Google published a blog post emphasizing that companies, governments, and organizations should work together to create AI that “protects people, promotes global development, and supports national security.” According to experts, this statement paves the way for closer collaboration between Google and government agencies.

In the past, Google faced internal protests from employees upset about the company’s involvement in military initiatives. In 2024, more than 200 DeepMind specialists expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s contracts with military organizations. Similar protests occurred in 2018 over Project Maven, which involved analyzing drone data for the Pentagon.

Google’s policy change aligns with a broader trend among major AI industry players. Meta, Anthropic, and OpenAI have already made their models available to U.S. government agencies. Additionally, OpenAI has signed a contract with U.S. national laboratories to work on nuclear research.

Amid these developments, Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced record investments in AI development. The company will allocate $75 billion in capital expenditures related to expanding its AI operations, further confirming its commitment to integrating with key government programs.

Critics argue that abandoning previous principles leads to the commercialization of AI without regard for ethical consequences. However, Google representatives maintain that the company remains committed to international standards and human rights.