Tech

Microsoft Unveils “Community‑First AI Infrastructure”: A New Model for Responsible AI Growth

Microsoft is starting a new way to build and run AI data centers. This approach focuses on community well-being and protecting the environment. Microsoft President Brad Smith says the industry needs to change its energy and water use. It also must work better with local communities as demand for artificial intelligence grows. The company's Community-First AI Infrastructure plan goes beyond just tech innovation. It focuses on responsible deployment, too. This new plan arrives as big data centers, which support AI, face growing criticism. Regulators, residents, and policymakers worry about the high use of electricity and water. This demand strains local utilities and natural resources. What Is Community‑First AI Infrastructure? Microsoft’s plan is grounded in five core commitments designed to reframe how AI infrastructure interacts with host communities: Paying Full Power…