NEWS  AI  November 20, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Sam Altman, former CEO of OpenAI, is reportedly gearing up to venture into the realm of artificial intelligence once again. Altman, a co-founder of OpenAI, found himself ousted from the helm of the company that gained notoriety with the launch of the AI chatbot ChatGPT.

Reports from reliable sources, suggest that Altman wasted no time and began crafting plans for a new AI endeavor. The New York Times highlighted Altman's discussions with investors, unveiling ideas ranging from customized AI chips to potential competition with industry giant Nvidia, along with the development of an AI hardware device.

The question looms over whether Altman will materialize any of these proposals. While uncertainties persist, there are hints that Greg Brockman, OpenAI's president and co-founder who resigned in solidarity, may join Altman in his new AI venture.

OpenAI, in response to inquiries, remained tight-lipped about Altman's departure and the potential collaboration with Brockman. Altman stepped down following a board review that cited a breakdown in communication, emphasizing that the move was unrelated to financial, business, safety, or security concerns.

Brad Lightcap, OpenAI's chief operating officer, clarified in an internal memo reviewed that Altman's removal stemmed from communication issues rather than any malfeasance. Despite this, there have been calls from OpenAI investors urging the board to reinstate Altman as CEO.

OpenAI's unique governance structure, allowing the board of the nonprofit to oust Altman without consulting major investors, has stirred controversy. Founded as a nonprofit in 2015, OpenAI introduced a commercial arm in 2019 to raise capital, but the nonprofit board retained authority over its commercial wing.

Tensions within OpenAI reportedly escalated due to rapid growth after the release of ChatGPT, with concerns emerging about the company's ability to adhere to its initial mission of developing safe AI.

Altman, addressing the unfolding events on X, expressed fondness for his time at OpenAI, characterizing it as transformative both personally and for the world. He hinted at forthcoming announcements about his next steps, leaving the tech community eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Altman's AI journey.