Companies should focus on AI ethics even if it hits profits, says Microsoft UK director - Microsoft News Centre UK

Companies must refuse to create artificial intelligence that is unethical and could harm humanity, even if it affects their profits, a senior director at Microsoft UK has said. Hugh Milward, Senior Director of Corporate, External and Legal Affairs, said businesses need to "draw a line" on what is acceptable when developing cutting-edge technology and understand their responsibilities. "Just because something can be done, doesn't mean it should be done," he told the Tech UK Digital Ethics Summit in London. The event heard from leading figures in business and government on how the UK can remain a global leader in building digital services and technology, and discussed how they should be used for the benefits of everyone. "It is essential to build trust in technology such as AI," Milward said.