Google-backed Current AI partnership launches with $400 million for public interest initiatives

A new partnership called Current AI was launched at the French AI Action summit, with over $400 million pledged to promote public interest in artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to develop AI in ways that benefit society, focusing on healthcare and climate goals. Current AI plans to raise $2.5 billion over five years. It will support access to quality data, open-source tools, and systems to measure AI's social impact. The partnership includes governments from nine countries, with backing from tech companies like Google and Salesforce. The initiative seeks to unify efforts in public interest AI, addressing fragmentation in the field. Current AI will provide financial support, incubate research, and align funding efforts to amplify impact in critical areas.