Ex-Google DeepMind researcher backs warning that AI could 'kill all humans'

Bilal Chughtai, a former Google DeepMind researcher, has joined the chorus of AI experts warning that the technology could potentially "kill all humans." Speaking to reporters, Chughtai expressed his belief that AI safety is attainable, but stressed the need for coordinated efforts to prevent a dangerous "manic race" among competing AI companies. Chughtai, who worked on AGI safety and alignment research at DeepMind, resigned in July 2026 and recently shared his concerns on social media platform X.

The warnings come amid growing public alarm over the potential dangers posed by AI. Earlier this week, Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon announced his resignation, citing his belief that AI could pose an existential threat by the end of the decade. In response, Anthropic scientist Evan Hubinger echoed Coxon's concerns, stating that he too believed there was a greater than 10% chance of AI causing human extinction within the next ten years.

Following the recent concerns, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei called for a temporary slowdown in the development of advanced AI systems. The move attracted support from high-profile figures including SpaceXAI's Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Amodei's call to action sparked a debate over the concept of "AI doomerism," with some experts arguing that the risks posed by AI are overstated, while others maintain that the potential consequences are too severe to ignore.

Chughtai also suggested that safe navigation of AI development is possible, but requires a coordinated approach to ensure that emerging risks are addressed before they lead to extreme harm. He argued for a more measured pace of AI development, allowing society to adapt and implement necessary safeguards as the technology evolves.

In contrast, former U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed the warnings as a "hoax," questioning the motives behind the AI industry's push for regulation. The debate around AI's potential impact on humanity remains ongoing, with researchers, policymakers, and the public grappling with the complex issue as the technology continues to advance at a rapid pace.