New Delhi: The free and open internet is under threat across the world, according to Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who claims that numerous nations are restricting information flow and that the model is sometimes overlooked.
The tech giant CEO, in an extensive conversation with the BBC at Google's Silicon Valley headquarters, talked about an array of topics and issues like the threat to the free and open internet, as well as two developments that he believes will fundamentally revolutionise the world in the next quarter-century: artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing.
When questioned if the Chinese model of the internet, which is centered on surveillance, is becoming more popular, he said “None of our major products and services are available in China." He further made it clear that the responsibility of steering the future of the internet should not be on an individual "but rather a collective think tank that plots the course forward while taking into account the foundational pillars of the free internet."
He considered artificial intelligence as the “most profound” technology that humanity will ever discover and work on, as he addressed the concerns surrounding tax, privacy, and data.
"You know, if you think about fire or electricity or the internet, it's like that. But I think even more profound," he told BBC.
When questioned about his own digital habits and he advised everyone to use "two-factor authentication" when it comes to passwords to ensure multiple layers of security, as well as admitting that he changes his phone frequently to try out new technology.
The 49-yr-old is a Tamil Nadu native and grew up in Chennai. He stated that India is profoundly ingrained in him and forms a significant part of his identity. "I'm an American citizen but India is deeply within me. So it's a big part of who I am”, said Pichai when asked about his origins.