Microsoft has announced plans to invest around $80 billion in data centers that underpin artificial intelligence (AI) during the current fiscal year. This was revealed by President Brad Smith in a blog post, where he also appealed to the incoming President Donald Trump for investment into this 'golden opportunity' for the American economy. Smith stated that the U.S. is at the forefront of this significant technology surge due to the collaboration of tech companies, chip suppliers, and software developers on AI. The majority of the $80 billion Microsoft plans to invest in data centers will be used within the U.S., according to Smith.
This announcement arrives on the back of other American tech companies investing trillions into data centers necessary for AI, and considering the use of nuclear energy to power them. Smith emphasized that the U.S. is leading in the global AI race owing to the capital investment and innovation of American companies of various sizes. He added that for the country to fully capitalize on this emerging technology, active participation from government, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations is required to facilitate the AI era.
Smith has urged the Trump administration to increase funding availability for AI research and to develop a national talent strategy for training Americans in this technology. He also suggested the administration to consider the impact of any potential AI regulations on American businesses' chances abroad, as competition intensifies with Chinese companies.
Smith stressed that the primary public policy priority should be to ensure the constant progress of the U.S. private sector without being hindered by excessive regulations. "The United States cannot afford to slowdown its own private sector with heavy-handed regulations,” he added.