Peter Smith
● In a heated X exchange, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded to Elon Musk's claim that he'd "stolen a non-profit." Altman defended OpenAI's shift to a capped-profit model, calling it necessary for serious AI research. "I helped turn the thing you left for dead into what should be the largest non-profit ever," Altman shot back, noting Musk knew this structure was needed from the start.
● Altman revealed that Musk once wanted Tesla to fully absorb OpenAI, ditching the non-profit status entirely. He also reminded everyone that Musk gave the project a "0% chance of success" before leaving. The spat highlights a growing distraction from what matters — AI safety and responsible governance. Some worry Musk's constant attacks could damage public trust in how AI companies operate.
● Beyond the drama, this reflects two different views on funding AI innovation. Musk claims OpenAI betrayed its mission after partnering with Microsoft. Altman argues those partnerships were crucial for the computing power needed to scale safely. Without sustainable funding, he suggests, OpenAI wouldn't exist today.
● The public clash comes as Musk's xAI and OpenAI compete head-to-head in generative AI. Many see this as more than a personal beef — it's an ideological split between open research advocates and those backing corporate-led development.
Peter Smith
