Anthropic frames AI competition with China as a now-or-never moment for Washington

In a stark warning, Anthropic has released a policy paper outlining two possible scenarios for the future of artificial intelligence by 2028. The San Francisco-based AI company paints a picture of a now-or-never moment for Washington, where the United States can either solidify its lead in AI computing capabilities over China or cede the advantage to authoritarian regimes. The paper's message is clear: the next few years will be crucial in determining the course of AI development and its governance.

According to Anthropic, the US is currently ahead in terms of compute capabilities, but this lead is not guaranteed to last. The company's vision for 2028 is starkly divided into two paths. In one, the US successfully locks in its compute lead, ensuring that democratic values and principles guide the development and deployment of AI technologies.

In the other, authoritarian regimes seize the initiative, using their own AI capabilities to set the rules for the global AI era. This scenario, Anthropic warns, would have profound implications for individual freedoms, human rights, and the global balance of power. The timing of the paper's release is no coincidence, as it comes at a moment when policymakers in Washington are increasingly focused on the strategic implications of AI.

Anthropic's call to action is clear: the US must act now to maintain its lead in AI compute and ensure that the development of AI aligns with democratic values. The alternative, the company warns, would be a future where authoritarian regimes dictate the terms of the AI era, with potentially disastrous consequences for human rights and global stability. The policy paper is a rallying cry for US policymakers and industry leaders to prioritize AI development and governance.

As the world hurtles towards an AI-driven future, Anthropic's warning could not be more timely. The next few years will be critical in shaping the course of AI history, and the stakes could not be higher. The Decoder will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.