US State Department Changes AI Terminology to 'Super Intelligence' Following Presidential Directive

This change in nomenclature reflects a broader strategy to position the US as a leader in advanced technology, potentially influencing international AI policy.

• On September 22, 2026, President Trump announced at the UN that the term 'artificial intelligence' would be replaced with 'super intelligence' in US government documents.
• The following day, the Bureau of International Organization Affairs directed its diplomats to implement this change in all communications.
• US representatives began using 'super intelligence' in official discussions, although the directive's reach to other agencies remains uncertain.

• Trump's stance on AI has consistently favored minimal regulation, emphasizing the need for the US to maintain technological superiority over competitors like China.
• The term 'super intelligence' traditionally refers to a hypothetical AI that surpasses human intelligence, which could lead to confusion in diplomatic contexts.
• This rebranding aligns with previous efforts to adopt language that portrays US technology as advanced and genuine, distancing from terms that imply artificiality.

The US State Department's directive to adopt the term 'super intelligence' instead of 'artificial intelligence' is not merely a semantic shift; it reflects a strategic positioning in the global tech landscape. By rebranding AI, the US aims to project confidence in its technological capabilities and foster a narrative that emphasizes authenticity and advancement. This aligns with President Trump's broader agenda of promoting US leadership in technology, particularly in the face of rising competition from countries like China.

The directive was issued following Trump's speech at the UN General Assembly, where he argued that the term 'artificial' suggests a lack of authenticity. This perspective is crucial as it shapes how the US engages with international bodies and sets the tone for future discussions on AI governance. The Bureau of International Organization Affairs, which is responsible for US interactions with the UN and other multilateral agencies, is now tasked with implementing this change across all official communications.

However, the implications of this shift extend beyond mere terminology. The use of 'super intelligence' could influence how other nations perceive US technological advancements and may affect international negotiations on AI regulations. The term carries connotations of superiority and advanced capabilities, which could be leveraged to assert US dominance in global tech discussions.

Moreover, the directive raises questions about consistency within the US government. While the Bureau of International Organization Affairs has adopted this new terminology, it remains unclear whether other State Department bureaus or federal agencies will follow suit. This inconsistency could lead to confusion both domestically and internationally, particularly as 'super intelligence' is often associated with theoretical AI that exceeds human cognitive abilities.

As the world grapples with the implications of AI, the US's rebranding effort could have significant ramifications for how AI is regulated and perceived globally. The shift may also impact market dynamics, as companies and governments adjust to the new terminology and its associated implications.

• Tech companies: They may need to adapt their messaging and branding to align with the new terminology.
• Diplomats and international relations professionals: They will have to navigate the implications of this shift in discussions and negotiations.
• Regulatory bodies: They may face pressure to redefine AI policies in light of the new terminology.
• Investors in AI: They could see shifts in market sentiment based on how this rebranding influences perceptions of US technological leadership.

• Adoption across agencies: Monitor whether other State Department bureaus or federal agencies adopt the 'super intelligence' terminology, as this will indicate the directive's broader impact.
• International reactions: Watch for responses from other countries and international organizations regarding this terminology shift, which could influence global AI policy discussions.
• Market impacts: Keep an eye on how tech companies and investors react to this change, as it may affect funding and innovation in AI sectors.