Microsoft president Brad Smith is demanding binding global safety rules for artificial intelligence, arguing that the technology currently faces fewer restrictions than household appliances and consumer goods.

"Right now, your washing machine is subject to more safety rules than AI. Every carton of milk that you see in the grocery store is subject to safety rules and inspection," Smith said. He outlined a framework that would require companies to install emergency brakes to halt malfunctioning models, publish incident reports, and legally notify users when rogue systems cause harm. Smith also called for independent government auditors to vet new AI products before they reach the market.

The proposal draws a clear line between Smith and President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly argued that the tech sector should govern itself. Trump warns that heavy oversight could hand a competitive advantage to Chinese rivals. Smith agrees that innovation must continue but insists voluntary measures no longer cover the risks. Last month, Trump hosted leaders from OpenAI, Anthropic, Nvidia, SpaceX, Meta, and Google at the White House to sign a voluntary safety pledge. Smith approved the agreement but warned that self-regulation only works when companies already act responsibly.

"The moment has arrived," Smith said. "Let's speak calmly, maybe even softly, but firmly, and start to bring people together."

He pointed to the United Kingdom as the natural leader for these international standards. Smith praised the AI Security Institute, launched under former prime minister Rishi Sunak, as the best equipped to draft technical guidelines. He noted that US officials in Washington DC generally view British tech policy more favorably than European Union rules. Smith hopes Microsoft and the UK can help unite global stakeholders around a common safety framework.