We need regulations without stifling innovation, says rapper Will.i.am on AI

Will.i.am, the US rapper, has called for responsible regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure innovation thrives without compromising ethical standards.

In a chat with CNBC, the rapper spoke on the future of AI, and emphasised the need for governance while warning against unchecked technological advancements.

The 49-year-old songwriter, born William James Adams Jr., also predicted a shift in how data is handled, likening it to financial assets stored in banks.

Will.i.am expressed optimism about AI’s potential but cautioned against greed-driven deployment of the technology.

“I’m an AI enthusiast and I love technology, but I’m also cautious. There is need for regulations and governance without stifling innovation, but we still have to be responsible,” he said.

“We’re walking into a world that we’ve never seen before, computers will be wiser than the wisest wise men and women. If you want a fair world, where AI is a human right, data practices have to be changed.

“Five years from now, you will have and own your own AI, data will be in everyone’s top of mind as something that is precious. There will be banks that bank our data like our money is kept safe.

“I look forward to it in hopes that humanity doesn’t lead with greed and these technologies be deployed to being a better world for us all.”

Will.i.am, who is also a tech entrepreneur, has been a vocal advocate for AI-driven innovation.

Last year, the rapper launched RAiDiO.FYI, an AI-driven radio platform.

His comments come amid a global debate on AI regulation.

Last month, JD Vance, US vice president cautioned against excessive regulation, arguing it could “paralyze one of the most promising technologies of our time”.

The post We need regulations without stifling innovation, says rapper Will.i.am on AI appeared first on 36ng.