

Bytes: Week in Review — Google’s AI policy pivot, OpenAI teams up with California colleges, and robotaxis arrive in Austin
Feb 7, 2025
Natasha Mascarenhas, a Reporter at The Information, shares insights on significant changes in AI policy from Google, including their decision to remove restrictions on using AI for military purposes. She discusses OpenAI's collaboration with California colleges to launch ChatGPT EDU, aimed at enhancing AI literacy among students. Additionally, the conversation covers the arrival of robotaxis in Austin, exploring how driverless technology is reshaping transportation and its implications for passenger safety and the rideshare industry.
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Google's AI Policy Shift
- Google revised its AI principles, removing language prohibiting AI use in weapons or surveillance.
- This shift aligns with a broader trend of tech companies embracing national security applications.
AI in Defense
- Other major AI developers already work in defense, suggesting a growing market Google may find hard to ignore.
- The increasing convergence of technology and defense creates strong incentives for collaboration.
Employee Backlash
- Google employees have previously protested the company's involvement in defense contracts, particularly with Israel's military.
- This history suggests potential for similar backlash against the updated AI policy.