Marketplace Tech Taylor Swift vs. AI
May 1, 2026
Maria Curie, Axios tech policy reporter who covers AI policy and industry deals. She breaks down Google’s Pentagon AI agreement and the politics around AI rules on Capitol Hill. They explore Taylor Swift’s trademark move against AI deepfakes and whether trademarks can curb misuse. Plus, a look at Japan Airlines testing humanoid robots for baggage and the limits of robot labor.
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Google Deal Seen As More Permissive Than OpenAI
- Google’s Pentagon deal is seen as more permissive because Google will collaborate with the DoD on safety mechanisms rather than retaining sole discretion.
- Maria Curie contrasts this with OpenAI’s deal where the company kept full control of its safety stack, prompting concerns about loopholes and legal gaps.
Powerful Models Push Congress Toward AI Rules
- Renewed congressional interest in AI rules has increased after release of powerful models like Anthropic's Mythos.
- Maria Curie notes lawmakers may try to add AI provisions to the National Defense Authorization Act but consensus and speed remain hurdles.
Worker Pushback Didn’t Halt Google's Deal
- Employee pushback at Google didn't stop the deal, likely due to competitive pressure and the Pentagon being a major customer.
- Maria Curie says OpenAI's existing services and competition between AI labs created incentives to proceed despite protests.