OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman has revealed that Elon Musk thought the company would fail and decided to part ways. In an interview with Lex Fridman, Altman mentioned Musk’s desire for total control and efforts to steer OpenAI in a different direction, including potentially merging with Tesla. Altman reiterated OpenAI’s commitment to providing powerful technology for free as a public good.
Altman stated, “Musk thought OpenAI was going to fail. He wanted total control to turn it around. We wanted to keep going in the direction that now has become OpenAI. He also wanted Tesla to be able to build an AGI effort.” OpenAI’s focus remains on offering advanced tools to the public without monetization through ads or other means, emphasizing their mission of making technology accessible to all.
Recently, Musk filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and Altman, alleging breaches in their original agreements related to AI. OpenAI responded by asserting that Musk’s demands for merging with Tesla or full control did not align with the company’s goals. The legal dispute underscores differing perspectives on OpenAI’s future direction and governance.
Altman’s disclosures shed light on the complexities of the relationship between Musk and OpenAI, highlighting contrasting views on the company’s trajectory and purpose. Despite the legal conflict, OpenAI remains steadfast in its mission to provide innovative technology for public benefit, underscoring the significance of democratizing access to advanced tools in the digital age.
