Although the term “AI” has been used since around the time I was born, the technology has only made significant progress in the past decade. It is now incredibly capable and it is continuing to improve at a mind-blowing rate. It can now replace and even exceed human cognition. 

In terms of equity, AI will either be the greatest equalizer ever invented, or the worst source of injustice. The challenge is monumental. How will we use this technology to make the world a fairer place and keep it from widening the divide between rich and poor? How will we protect the people who are most vulnerable to the harms it causes? 

I believe that answering these questions should be the world’s top priority. If the world takes the right steps, AI will be a force for good and leave everyone better off.

I raise the issue with leaders in Washington, D.C., and around the world, including the people who are developing AI models. The Gates Foundation will help drive beneficial usage, including in Africa. Breakthrough Energy, a company I founded, will use AI to help companies develop cheap clean energy and help solve the climate problem. 

The questions raised by AI are too consequential to leave to a small group of technologists. Leaders from every sector of society have a role to play in shaping what comes next.