Aswin Prabhakar
Aswin Prabhakar is a Policy Analyst at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation. He was previously a James Buchanan Fellow at George Mason University, where he earned a Master's degree in Economics. Aswin also holds an Integrated Master's degree in Development Studies from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras.
Aswin's research primarily focuses on the policy implications of emerging technologies, with a particular emphasis on open-source AI models. He closely examines the policy issues surrounding open-source AI and also extensively analyzes competition policy issues in the e-commerce sector.
Recent Publications
Comments to the Competition Bureau Canada Regarding AI and Competition
The artificial intelligence market in Canada is still in its early stages but is growing rapidly and becoming increasingly competitive. At this juncture, there is no clear evidence of market failure, substantial barriers to entry, or exclusionary practices that would necessitate intervention.
Comments to the European Commission’s Directorate General for Competition on Virtual Worlds and Generative AI
The market for AR/VR technologies, though nascent, presents a multifaceted competitive landscape spanning hardware, software, and distribution. And the generative AI market is experiencing early-stage growth with no significant entry barriers evident, particularly concerning data, computational resources, and talent.
The FTC is Meddling in AI Creativity in Its Comments to the Copyright Office
The FTC is overreaching into areas beyond its regulatory purview—it has no jurisdiction over copyright issues—but imposing additional restrictions on the use of creative works in AI beyond existing copyright law will undercut competition.
The New York Times’ Copyright Lawsuit Against OpenAI Threatens the Future of AI and Fair Use
The New York Times’ lawsuit against OpenAI mischaracterizes the nuanced dynamics of AI development and the principles of fair use for news articles available online.
Logic, Not Emotions, Should Guide Autonomous Vehicle Deployment
Autonomous vehicles stand out as they offer the potential to reduce accidents & improve urban mobility. Policy decisions need to encourage this potential, rather than being swayed by emotional reactions to isolated events.
Comments to the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority on Microsoft’s Partnership With OpenAI
The Microsoft-OpenAI partnership came at a crucial time when the future of foundation models was uncertain. In hindsight, it has provided the catalyst for the current wave of innovation and competition in generative AI and did not compromise the ability of other market players to compete. The CMA should not intervene in this partnership.
The EU AI Act Is a Cautionary Tale in Open-Source AI Regulation
One of the most glaring problems in the EU AI Act’s current form is how it would create unreasonable requirements for developers of open-source AI systems.
The FTC Should Not Treat OpenAI Like Public Enemy No. 1
The FTC's recent investigation into OpenAI, prompted by a minor data breach and a defamation lawsuit, seems driven by anti-tech ideology rather than a measured understanding of the evidence.
FTC Could End Amazon Prime Benefits for Consumers
The FTC’s likely solutions to Amazon's alleged anticompetitive behavior would come at the expense of convenience, a wider selection of products, fast delivery, lower prices, and valuable features.
Recent Events and Presentations
Generative AI and Congressional Action
Daniel Castro and Aswin Prabhakar speak at Broadband Breakfast's panel on generative AI and how that may impact legislation and congressional action this year.
