Google is to disband an AI ethics panel in the UK after disagreements emerged between its local DeepMind research unit and other members. The Alphabet Inc. unit is struggling with how best to set guidelines for its sometimes-sensitive work in AI—the ability for computers to replicate tasks that only humans could do in the past. The panel, which was set up by a group of leading academics including Professor Sir Ian Deary, had been tasked with advising on how artificial intelligence (AI) should be used for ethical reasons. Setting such guidelines proved a difficult task, with panel members complaining they were not being given full access to information and research. Its studies included AI's effects on data privacy and the troubling matter of screen addiction among children. In early April, Google disbanded another high-profile, independent ethics council following protests over the panel's make-up.
Google is to disband an AI ethics panel in the UK after disagreements emerged between its local DeepMind research unit and other members. The panel, which was set up by a group of leading academics including Professor Sir Ian Deary, had been tasked with advising on how artificial intelligence (AI) should be used for ethical reasons. Setting such guidelines proved a difficult task, with panel members complaining they were not being given full access to information and research. Its studies included AI's effects on data privacy and the troubling matter of screen addiction among children. In early April, Google disbanded another high-profile, independent ethics council following protests over the panel's make-up.