US restricts exports of AI for analyzing satellite images

U.S. tech companies that build artificial intelligence software for analyzing satellite imagery are facing new restrictions on exporting their products to China and elsewhere. The Commerce Department says the new export rules take effect today. They target emerging technology that could give the U.S. a significant military or intelligence advantage.

The rules could affect a growing sector of the tech industry using algorithms to analyze satellite images of crops, trade patterns and other changes affecting the economy or environment. The new rules are the result of Congress passing a law in 2018 updating export controls to include emerging technology.

It's an interim rule until the public has a chance to weigh in before March, but the Commerce Department says it is in the national security interests of the U.S. to immediately implement the controls.