The future of the internet in the age of AI
Applying lessons from building the internet to emerging technologies 

Monday, December 8, 2025, 2:30 – 4:45 p.m. EST 
Online: https://www.brookings.edu/events/the-future-of-the-internet-in-the-age-of-ai 

It has been 42 years since the launch of the commercial internet via the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET). Since then, the web has transformed all aspects of society and ushered in a true digital revolution, radically changing critical sectors such as health care, education, the labor market, transportation, and commerce. New and emerging technologies have been developed, leading to even greater computing power and device interoperability. As artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies become more prominent, the internet will enter the next phase of digital transformation, prompting questions about how future networks are configured and made available to online consumers, government, and businesses. With connectivity demands poised to shift dramatically, the time is now to discuss how the internet will evolve as AI becomes more ubiquitous, and whether it will see the complementary growth and investment needed to keep pace in a rapidly changing digital economy. Questions around equity will also become more prominent as AI accelerates and takes on greater role in decision making for individuals and communities.

On December 8, the Center for Technology Innovation (CTI) at Brookings will host a discussion on how we can apply the lessons of constructing and regulating the internet to the age of AI.  

Online viewers can submit questions via e-mail to events@brookings.edu.