The White House is dictating access to frontier AI models, shifting power from tech giants - CNBC

The Trump administration is taking more control over the release and access of frontier AI models, according to two sources familiar with the matter. The White House is dictating which companies and entities are allowed access to the latest models, shifting power away from major technology companies. This marks a significant escalation in government oversight of advanced AI development.

The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the administration is directly involved in decisions about model access, though specific criteria for approval have not been disclosed. The move follows earlier indications that the government was seeking greater involvement in AI safety and security issues. The White House has not publicly commented on the policy change.

The change alters the balance between private sector AI developers and the federal government. Now, the executive branch is asserting authority over who can use these systems, raising questions about how access decisions will be made and enforced. The policy could affect the pace of AI deployment and the competitive landscape both domestically and internationally.