China has been hyped as an AI superpower poised to overtake the U.S. in the strategic technology domain of AI. However, the U.S. is not sitting idly by and has proposed a vigorous strategy to recalibrate the U.S.-China relationship in science and technology based on three policy goals: (1) protecting the U.S. technological advantage, (2) promoting U.S. technological innovation, and (3) ensuring U.S. technological leadership.
Technological Advantage for the U.S. Technological Advantage
The U.S. government has been investigating China’s acts, policies, and practices related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation. The investigation found that China’s policies and practices are designed to unfairly acquire U.S. intellectual property and technology. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has taken action to address these issues, including imposing tariffs on Chinese goods and restricting Chinese investment in the U.S.
Promote U.S. Technological Innovation
The U.S. federal government also invests in R&D to promote technological innovation. The National Science Foundation (NSF) has launched the Convergence Accelerator program to support interdisciplinary research in areas such as AI, quantum information science, and advanced manufacturing. The Department of Energy (DOE) has established the Artificial Intelligence and Technology Office to coordinate AI research across the DOE’s national laboratories.
Ensure U.S. Technology Leadership
The U.S. Government is taking steps to make sure that it remains a leader when it comes to AI and other emerging technology. The National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence has recommended the U.S. Government invest in AI research, develop a national AI policy, and promote international AI cooperation. The U.S. has also launched the Emerging Technology Leadership Initiative, which aims to promote U.S. Leadership on emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing and biotechnology.
China’s AI-Surveillance Symbiosis
China’s AI capabilities are closely tied to its surveillance state. The Chinese government has made significant investments in AI-powered surveillance technology, such as facial identification and predictive policing. Chinese tech companies also developed AI powered surveillance systems, which are used by government agencies to monitor citizens. Concerns about privacy and human rights have been raised by the symbiotic relationship that exists between China’s surveillance state and its AI industry.
Chinese Printer Brands
China’s technological capabilities are not limited to AI and surveillance. Chinese printer brands have also become a major force on the global market. Toner Buzz, an office supply company, conducted a study on the market for emerging Chinese printer brands. This included 3D printers and UV printers as well as high-speed inkjets. The study revealed that Chinese printers are gaining in popularity in the U.S., and other countries. This is due to their high quality and low prices.
In conclusion, China’s AI capabilities are a cause for concern for the U.S. government, which is taking steps to protect its technological advantage, promote innovation, and ensure leadership in emerging technologies. Concerns about privacy and human rights have been raised by the symbiotic relationship that exists between China’s surveillance state and its AI industry. However, China’s technological capabilities are not limited to AI and surveillance, as Chinese printer brands are also emerging as a force in the global market.