Aiming to boost artificial intelligence (IA) in its territory, the United Kingdom has entered into a strategic partnership with technology company OpenAI. The English government announced the partnership between the company and the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) British this Monday (21), through an agreement signed by the Memorandum of Understanding and initiative 100% volunteer.
As per the ad, tailored strategic visa: “expand AI security research collaborations, explore investment in UK AI infrastructure, like in data centers, e find new ways for taxpayer-funded services”. OpenAI has already had offices in London for two years and this new link could positively impact investments in the startup on the European continent.
The country introduced the AI Action Plan in January, which also plans to expand investments in computing infrastructure. This is an area in which the UK has experience, as it has served as headquarters for large research laboratories, like Google DeepMind. Despite the latest measures, investment by private institutions in AI in the UK is well below that of major powers. Em 2024, the British invested US$ 4,5 billion, os USA US$ 109,1 billion and others China US$ 9,3 billion.
Details about the strategic partnership
OpenAI has shown great interest in closing partnerships with governments that aim to work with AI in their systems. In January, the startup launched ChatGPT Gov, aimed at government agencies. No Memorandum, the company pointed out that it “could consider investing in and supporting” the British project (AI Action Plan).
“The UK has a strong legacy of scientific leadership and its government was one of the first to recognize the potential of AI through its AI Opportunities Action Plan. Now, It's time to fulfill the plan's objectives, transforming ambition into action and providing prosperity for all.”, salientou Sam Altman, CEO da startup.
Nonetheless, the memorandum signed between the UK and the company is not legally binding. This allows the government to accept proposals from other companies for future investments. Previously, interests had already been demonstrated. The North American company Anthropic has made its artificial intelligence models available for use in a new British government app, which allows citizens to access information from the country's official website. Canadian company Cohere also followed the movement and made a commitment to collaborate with the public sector, including applications in the defense area.
