Bill Gates is warning technology companies and world leaders that they must act now to ensure artificial intelligence combats social inequities. His foundation is also pledging $1 billion intended to improve AI access. The appeal comes as part of the Gates Foundation's annual Goalkeepers report. The donation will be spread over the next two years for AI-focused efforts to train models on local languages, improve health outcomes, help students learn better and inform small farmers' practices. The report arrives at a moment when leading AI companies are urging the industry to slow its fast-moving development.