Introduction to the U.S.-China Tech Competition

The U.S.-China tech competition is about more than tariffs. The future of the Internet is at stake. China is not just exporting hardware—it is exporting laws, standards, and authoritarian control. China is promoting its vision of what cyberspace should look like, which clashes sharply with the U.S.’s vision for a free and open Internet. To do so, China is training other governments in its authoritarian ways. It is fiercely seeking to dominate the little-known international organizations that literally set the standards for global tech, ensuring that Chinese firms have a global edge. China is also exporting its Legal Great Wall, repressive laws related to China’s national security and cybersecurity. China is attempting to enforce those laws abroad—even in the U.S. The U.S. and the private sector must act to counter China’s legal warfare—and keep China from taking over the Internet.

China’s Competing Vision for Tech and Cyberspace

The U.S.’s conception of what the Internet should look like is vastly different than China’s. The latest U.S. National Security Strategy, released in 2022, endorses the UN Norms of Responsible State Behavior in Cyberspace as the “rules of the road” for cyberspace and says the U.S. will promote them together with partner and ally nations. These “UN Cyber Norms,” were created by a UN Group of Governmental Experts and affirmed by the UN General Assembly in 2021. The 11 basic norms specify that states should not attack critical infrastructure, respond to requests for assistance by those attacked, and cooperate with other states to stop crime and terrorism, and other rules designed to keep civilians safe from cyber conflict. As the Strategy says, the Norms affirm that “human rights apply online just as they do offline.” Project 2025 goes even further than non-binding norms. Project 2025 advocates for the State Department to work with allies on a binding framework of enforceable norms that would “draw clear lines of unacceptable conduct” in cyberspace.

China’s Promotion of Cyber Sovereignty

China promotes a different future for the Internet. China advocates “cyber sovereignty,” a concept first announced by Xi Jinping in 2015. Cyber sovereignty allows states full control over Internet governance within their borders—to include censorship and surveillance. According to Adam Segal, a former senior cyber official in the Biden administration, the key goals of cyber sovereignty are tight control over domestic information, technological dominance, and influence over global cyber governance.

China’s Partnerships and Trainings

China has partnered with Russia and others to advance its vision of cyber sovereignty. China supports a Russia-led competing initiative in the UN designed to undermine the U.S.-backed Group of Governmental Experts. China also sells surveillance and censorship technology to other states and teaches them to use it. China’s National Computer Emergency Response Center (CERT) has partnerships with at least 274 other CERTs in 81 countries and territories and has signed 33 cybersecurity cooperation memoranda. These partnerships may include favorable trade and financing terms and intelligence-sharing agreements, may give China visibility into software vulnerabilities worldwide, and can provide access for China-based hackers. China has also held trainings and academies for foreign government and business officials. Data is scant, but China trained officials from at least 36 countries in 2017-2018 alone. 437 Southeast Asian government officials attended one such training at the Baise Executive Leadership Academy—on how to “guide public opinion online.”

How China Is Rewriting Global Tech Rules

China has also sought to dominate international standards-making bodies. The International Standards Organization, International Telecommunications Union, and other standards-making bodies are unknown to most—but they quietly make it possible for the world to work together. For example, the ISO ensures things like credit cards fit in ATMs, A4 paper fits in printers, and your personal data stays secure online. The ITU makes sure your phone connects internationally, your TV does not lose signal, and satellites do not crash into each other. These organizations shape everything from the screws in your furniture to the 5G signal on your phone. And they will set AI standards that will affect virtually all the tech you touch.

China’s Influence in International Standards-Making Bodies

China is trying to use international standards-making bodies to influence every technological choice you make. China’s representation in multilateral technical bodies has grown by 250% in the past 10-15 years. China now chairs or co-chairs more technical committees of the ISO than any other country. It has disproportionate representation in working groups at the ISO and ITU. ITU leadership increasingly features China-backed representatives advancing cyber sovereignty. Can you imagine a world in which the only cell phones that could make calls were made in China? China can—and it is trying to set the standards so that its own tech will dominate the future.

How the U.S. Can Stop China From Taking Over the Internet and Dominating Global Tech

The U.S. and its allies and partners must treat China’s legal warfare ("lawfare") and “normfare” as a strategic threat. They must invest in a binding legal framework to protect a free and open Internet. The U.S. must also work closely with the private sector and advocate for the interests of U.S. businesses. Private sector lawsuits against China and Chinese tech firms can challenge and weaken China’s influence over tech standards. The U.S. must also work with allies to educate countries about the risks of Chinese tech, and to provide low-cost alternatives to the repressive technologies that China is selling to the developing world.

Conclusion

Tech tariffs are just the tip of the iceberg. China is trying to rewrite the rules that shape our lives on and offline. The U.S. and the private sector must act decisively to stop China’s world-wide web of authoritarianism from ensnaring us all.

FAQs

Q: What is the main goal of China’s cyber sovereignty concept?
A: The main goal of China’s cyber sovereignty concept is to allow states full control over Internet governance within their borders, including censorship and surveillance.
Q: How is China promoting its vision of cyber sovereignty?
A: China is promoting its vision of cyber sovereignty by partnering with other countries, selling surveillance and censorship technology, and providing trainings and academies for foreign government and business officials.
Q: What is the role of international standards-making bodies in the U.S.-China tech competition?
A: International standards-making bodies, such as the ISO and ITU, play a crucial role in shaping global tech standards, and China is seeking to dominate these bodies to influence every technological choice made worldwide.
Q: How can the U.S. stop China from taking over the Internet and dominating global tech?
A: The U.S. can stop China by treating China’s legal warfare and "normfare" as a strategic threat, investing in a binding legal framework to protect a free and open Internet, and working closely with the private sector and allies to educate countries about the risks of Chinese tech and provide low-cost alternatives.

Are you leveraging software and platforms for DEIA to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment? In today’s fast-paced business landscape, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) audits have become crucial for organizations to identify areas of improvement and foster a culture of belonging. Regular DEIA audits can help companies stay ahead of the curve and ensure that their policies, practices, and procedures are fair, equitable, and inclusive.

What are DEIA Audits?

A DEIA audit is a comprehensive examination of an organization’s policies, procedures, and practices to identify areas of strength and weakness in terms of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. The audit process involves collecting and analyzing data, conducting interviews and focus groups, and reviewing documents and policies to assess the organization’s DEIA efforts. The goal of a DEIA audit is to provide recommendations for improvement and help organizations create a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

Benefits of Regular DEIA Audits

Regular DEIA audits can bring numerous benefits to an organization, including improved employee engagement, increased diversity, and enhanced reputation. By identifying and addressing DEIA-related issues, organizations can create a more inclusive and equitable work environment, which can lead to increased employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity. Additionally, regular DEIA audits can help organizations stay compliant with regulations and avoid potential lawsuits.

Types of DEIA Audits

There are several types of DEIA audits, including internal audits, external audits, and hybrid audits. Internal audits are conducted by an organization’s internal team, while external audits are conducted by external consultants or experts. Hybrid audits combine elements of both internal and external audits. The type of audit chosen depends on the organization’s size, complexity, and DEIA goals.

Software Solutions for DEIA Audits

Technology can play a significant role in facilitating DEIA audits and improving the overall DEIA process. There are various software solutions available that can help organizations conduct DEIA audits, track progress, and identify areas for improvement. These software solutions can include survey tools, data analytics platforms, and DEIA management software.

Survey Tools

Survey tools are essential for collecting data and feedback from employees, customers, and other stakeholders. These tools can help organizations identify areas of strength and weakness in terms of DEIA and provide insights into the experiences and perceptions of different groups. Popular survey tools include SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics, and Culture Amp.

Data Analytics Platforms

Data analytics platforms can help organizations analyze and interpret DEIA-related data, identify trends and patterns, and track progress over time. These platforms can include tools such as Tableau, Power BI, and Domo. By leveraging data analytics platforms, organizations can make data-driven decisions and develop targeted strategies to improve DEIA outcomes.

DEIA Management Software

DEIA management software is designed to help organizations manage and track DEIA-related data, policies, and procedures. These software solutions can include tools such as DEIA dashboards, training platforms, and policy management systems. Popular DEIA management software includes Workboard, Culture Amp, and IBM Kenexa.

Best Practices for Conducting DEIA Audits

Conducting a DEIA audit requires careful planning, execution, and follow-up. Best practices for conducting DEIA audits include establishing clear goals and objectives, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring confidentiality and anonymity. Organizations should also ensure that the audit process is inclusive and accessible, and that the findings and recommendations are communicated effectively to all stakeholders.

Establishing Clear Goals and Objectives

Establishing clear goals and objectives is critical to the success of a DEIA audit. Organizations should define what they want to achieve through the audit, what areas they want to focus on, and what metrics they will use to measure success. Clear goals and objectives will help guide the audit process and ensure that the findings and recommendations are relevant and actionable.

Engaging Stakeholders

Engaging stakeholders is essential to the success of a DEIA audit. Organizations should involve employees, customers, and other stakeholders in the audit process to ensure that their voices are heard and their experiences are taken into account. Stakeholder engagement can include surveys, focus groups, and interviews.

Ensuring Confidentiality and Anonymity

Ensuring confidentiality and anonymity is critical to the success of a DEIA audit. Organizations should ensure that all data and feedback collected during the audit are kept confidential and that respondents are anonymous. This will help encourage honest and candid feedback and ensure that respondents feel safe and supported.

Conclusion

Regular DEIA audits are essential for creating a more inclusive and equitable work environment. By leveraging software solutions and best practices, organizations can conduct effective DEIA audits, identify areas for improvement, and develop targeted strategies to improve DEIA outcomes. Remember, DEIA is a continuous process that requires ongoing effort and commitment. By prioritizing DEIA and conducting regular audits, organizations can foster a culture of belonging, improve employee engagement, and drive business success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DEIA audit?

A DEIA audit is a comprehensive examination of an organization’s policies, procedures, and practices to identify areas of strength and weakness in terms of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Why are DEIA audits important?

DEIA audits are important because they help organizations identify and address DEIA-related issues, improve employee engagement, increase diversity, and enhance reputation.

How often should DEIA audits be conducted?

DEIA audits should be conducted regularly, ideally every 2-3 years, to ensure that organizations are continuously improving and addressing emerging DEIA issues.

What software solutions are available for DEIA audits?

There are various software solutions available for DEIA audits, including survey tools, data analytics platforms, and DEIA management software.

How can organizations ensure the success of a DEIA audit?

Organizations can ensure the success of a DEIA audit by establishing clear goals and objectives, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring confidentiality and anonymity.

Video games have played an important role in the development of AI. Many early demonstrations of machine learning involved teaching computers to play games. Eventually, Google Deepmind’s mastery of the game Starcraft 2 was taken as proof that machines could now compete with us across many fields in which we were previously undisputed champions.

Now, games are being used as a testbed for exploring some of the most exciting new areas in AI, including autonomous agents, real-world robots and perhaps even the quest for AGI. At this year’s Game Developer’s Conference, Google’s DeepMind AI division demonstrated its research into what it calls Scalable Instructable Multiworld Agents (SIMA). The idea is to show that machines can navigate and learn inside the 3D worlds of video game environments. They can then use what they’ve learned to navigate entirely different worlds and tasks, all with their own rules, using whatever tools are available to them to solve problems.

It might sound like child’s play, but this research could dramatically impact the development of the agentic AI we’ll use in our work and personal lives. So let’s take a look at what it could mean, and whether it could even solve the ultimate AI challenge of creating machines capable of adapting to any situation, much like humans can.

Virtual Worlds

Video games provide a great environment for training AI because the variety of tasks and challenges is almost infinite. Importantly, the player usually solves these challenges using a standard set of tools, all accessed via the game controller. This corresponds well with the way AI agents tackle problems by choosing which tools to use from a pre-defined selection. Game worlds also provide safe, observable and scalable environments where the effects of subtle changes to variables or behavior can be explored at little real-world cost.

DeepMind’s SIMAs were trained across nine different video game environments, taken from popular games including No Man’s Sky, Valheim and Goat Simulator. The agents were given the ability to interact and control the games using natural language commands like “pick up the key” or “move to the blue building.” Among the standout findings, the research showed that the agents are highly effective at transferable learning—taking what they learn in one game and using it to get better at another.

This was backed up by observations that agents trained to play eight of the nine games performed better at the one game they were untrained on than specialized agents solely trained on the one game. This dynamic learning ability will be critical in a world where agents are working alongside us, helping us explore, interpret and understand messy real-world problems and situations.

Physical Robots

The development of real-world robots that carry out physical tasks has accelerated in the last decade, hand-in-hand with the evolution of AI. However, they are still generally only used by large businesses due to the high cost of training them for specialist roles. Using virtual and video game environments could dramatically lower this cost. The theory is that transferable learning will enable physical robots to use their hands, arms or whatever tools they have to tackle many physical challenges, even if they haven’t come across them before.

For example, a robot that effectively learns how to use its hands to work in a warehouse might also learn how to use them to build a house. Before it released ChatGPT, OpenAI demonstrated research in this field. Dactyl is a robotic hand, trained in virtual simulated environments, that learned how to solve a Rubik’s Cube. This was one of the first demonstrations of the potential of transferring skills learned in virtual environments to complex physical-world tasks.

More recently, Nvidia has developed its Isaac platform expressly for the purpose of training robots to “learn to learn” how to carry out real-world tasks inside virtual environments. Today, physical AI-assisted robots are put to work in warehouse roles, agriculture, healthcare, deliveries, and many other jobs. In most cases, however, these robots are still doing tasks they were specifically trained for—at enormous expense by companies with very deep pockets.

But new models of “affordable” robots are on the horizon. Tesla plans to manufacture thousands of its Optimus robots this year and assign many of them to work in its factories. And Chinese robotics developer Unitree recently unveiled a $16,000 humanoid robot that can turn its hand to many tasks. With the price of robots falling and their AI brains becoming more powerful by the day, walking, talking humanoid robots could be stepping out of science fiction into everyday reality sooner than we think.

Toward AGI?

Almost 30 years ago, machines scored their first big win over humans by defeating Gary Kasparov at Chess. Few would have predicted then that a computer would exist that could beat world champions not just at one game, but at any game. This ability to “generalize” information by taking knowledge from one task and using it to solve an entirely different one is traditionally exclusive to humans, but that could be changing.

All of this will be hugely interesting to those chasing the holy grail of AI development, artificial general intelligence (AGI). Evidence that agents like DeepMind’s SIMAs are able to transfer learning from one virtual game environment to another suggests they may be developing some of the qualities needed for AGI. It demonstrates that they are progressively building competencies that can be applied to solving future problems.

Google, along with OpenAI, Anthropic and Microsoft, have all stated that developing AGI is their eventual goal, and it’s clearly the logical endpoint of the current focus on agentic intelligence. With video games, could another part of the puzzle be in place?

Conclusion

The use of video game environments to train AI agents is a promising area of research that could have significant implications for the development of real-world robots and AGI. The ability of agents to transfer learning from one game to another and apply it to new challenges is a key step towards creating machines that can adapt to any situation. As the cost of robots continues to fall and their AI brains become more powerful, we can expect to see more humanoid robots in our daily lives, performing a variety of tasks and helping us in many ways.

FAQs

Q: What is Scalable Instructable Multiworld Agents (SIMA)?
A: SIMA is a research project by Google’s DeepMind AI division that aims to train AI agents to navigate and learn inside 3D video game environments and apply what they’ve learned to new challenges.

Q: What is the significance of transferable learning in AI agents?
A: Transferable learning allows AI agents to take what they’ve learned in one environment and apply it to new challenges, which is a key step towards creating machines that can adapt to any situation.

Q: How can virtual and video game environments be used to train physical robots?
A: Virtual and video game environments can be used to train physical robots by providing a safe, observable, and scalable environment to explore and learn from, which can lower the cost of training robots for specialist roles.

Q: What is the ultimate goal of AI development?
A: The ultimate goal of AI development is to create artificial general intelligence (AGI), which refers to a machine that can perform any intellectual task that a human can.

Q: Which companies are working towards developing AGI?
A: Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, and Microsoft are some of the companies that have stated their goal of developing AGI.