Alphabet’s Google, facing intense regulatory scrutiny, aims to shape public perception and policies on artificial intelligence ahead of global AI regulations. A key priority, according to an executive speaking to Reuters, is developing educational programs to train the workforce on AI.
A top executive told Reuters that a major focus is developing educational programs to train the workforce on AI.
“Getting more people and organizations, including governments, familiar with AI and using AI tools, makes for better AI policy and opens up new opportunities – it’s a virtuous cycle,” said Kent Walker, Alphabet’s president of global affairs.
As Google competes with Big Tech rivals like Microsoft-backed OpenAI and Meta in the AI space, it remains cautious of the intense regulatory scrutiny over its advertising and search businesses.
In the European Union, Google has proposed selling part of its ad tech business to satisfy regulators.
Meanwhile, in the U.S., the Justice Department is pushing for a breakup of its Chrome browser, though this stance may change under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Governments around the world are drafting new regulations on issues like copyright and privacy, which could be further complicated by AI. The EU’s AI Act, aimed at assessing risk and requiring disclosures from general-purpose AI systems, has faced resistance from tech giants that may face multibillion-dollar fines.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Justice has sought to limit Google’s AI advancements as part of a federal case that found its search business to be an illegal monopoly.
Google executives see an opportunity to influence the narrative around AI, amid growing concerns about mass job loss. CEO Sundar Pichai announced a $120 million investment fund in September to support AI education programs.
Key executives, including Walker and Ruth Porat, the president and chief investment officer, are traveling worldwide to discuss policy recommendations with governments.
“There’s a lot of upside in terms of helping people who may be displaced by this. We do want to focus on that,” Walker said.
