Researchers used AI models to design complete bacteriophage genomes de novo, demonstrating the ability to generate synthetic phages that can be synthesized and potentially deployed for therapeutic or research uses. The work showcases acceleration in sequence‑to‑function design enabled by machine learning, but authors and commentators raised biosecurity and dual‑use concerns given easier access to programmable viral genomes. The paper catalyzes discussions on governance, synthesis screening and responsible deployment as synthetic virology and AI converge.