Google and the Pentagon have reportedly agreed to an agreement on any “legitimate” use of AI

Google has signed a secret deal allowing the US Department of Defense to use its artificial intelligence models “for any lawful government purpose.” Information Reports. The agreement was announced less than a day after Google employees asked CEO Sundar Pichai Ban the Pentagon From using artificial intelligence amid fears that it will be used in “inhumane or extremely harmful ways.”

Quoting one anonymous source “with knowledge of the situation,” Information The deal reportedly stipulates that both parties have agreed that the search giant’s AI systems should not be used for domestic mass surveillance or autonomous weapons “without appropriate human oversight and control.” But the contract also states that it does not give Google “any right to control or veto lawful government operational decision-making,” which may suggest that the agreed-upon restrictions are more of a rosy promise than legally binding obligations.

In a statement to ReutersA Google spokesperson said the company supports the view that AI should not be used for domestic mass surveillance or autonomous weapons without proper human oversight. “We believe that providing API access to our business models, including Google infrastructure, with industry standard practices and terms, represents a responsible approach to supporting national security,” Google told the outlet.