Bill Gates warns AI could cause a billion deaths

The Microsoft co-founder warned that artificial intelligence could become powerful enough to cause catastrophic loss of life if people use it with harmful intentions.

In an interview with NBC’s Meet the Press, Bill Gates said governments should require AI companies to implement safeguards and monitoring systems.

He warns that AI’s rapid advances are outpacing society’s ability to manage the risks, from cyberattacks and biological threats to systems that could eventually become difficult for humans to control.

Gates argued that companies should not be expected to regulate themselves as AI becomes more capable.

A former AI optimist, he issued his starkest warning when he said the tech in the wrong hands could potentially trigger events that cause “a billion deaths.”

Gates acknowledged that regulation would add some costs and requirements for AI companies but argued that it should not dramatically slow innovation.

His call faces political resistance. President Donald Trump has opposed new federal restrictions on AI, while House Speaker Mike Johnson has argued that companies should largely regulate themselves. 

Johnson has warned that a broad pause in AI development could allow China to gain an advantage and create national-security risks.

The debate comes as AI leaders raise concerns about the technology’s risks. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has called for international standards covering AI capabilities, safety and human oversight, while Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has backed federal and global cooperation.

Meanwhile, several US states, including California, Maryland and New York, are developing their own AI oversight measures.