Title: Elon Musk Files Lawsuit Against OpenAI and Sam Altman Over Alleged Shift to Closed-Source AI Development
Subtitle: Tesla and SpaceX Founder Claims Microsoft’s Influence Compromised OpenAI’s Original Ethos
In a surprising legal move, Elon Musk has initiated a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, alleging that the organization has deviated from its open-source principles and has become a closed-source entity influenced by Microsoft. The lawsuit, filed in San Francisco Superior Court, seeks an injunction to prevent OpenAI and Microsoft from capitalizing on the technology related to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).
Elon Musk contends that OpenAI, once known for its commitment to openness, has now transformed into a closed-source subsidiary of Microsoft. The lawsuit accuses Microsoft of wielding significant influence over OpenAI’s operations, compromising the development of AGI for the benefit of humanity. Musk asserts that the current direction of OpenAI focuses on refining AGI to maximize profits for Microsoft rather than fostering benefits for society.
The legal action further claims that OpenAI’s fiduciary duty has been breached, and the company is engaged in unfair business practices. Musk advocates for a return to OpenAI’s open-source roots, emphasizing the importance of making technology freely available to the public.
Notably, Musk is specifically seeking an injunction to prevent OpenAI, Sam Altman, Gregory Brockman (President of OpenAI), and Microsoft from profiting from the AGI technology currently under development. The lawsuit highlights concerns about GPT-4, stating that the internal details of the AI model are known only to OpenAI and Microsoft, contrary to the organization’s open principles.
Elon Musk points out the internal upheavals within OpenAI, specifically referring to the controversy surrounding the firing and subsequent reinstatement of Sam Altman as CEO. The lawsuit alleges Microsoft’s intervention in board decisions, resulting in the removal of members who sought to oust Altman. Musk asserts that the current board lacks scientists and researchers with adequate expertise in AGI and AI public policy.
It is essential to note that Microsoft has not been included as a defendant in the lawsuit. Elon Musk, a former OpenAI board member until 2018, resigned over conflicts related to the development of GPT-4. Reports suggest that Musk attempted to take control of OpenAI but was rejected by Sam Altman and other board members, leading to the termination of financial support.
The lawsuit raises significant questions about the future direction of OpenAI, especially in light of its recent Sora launch, fueling concerns about the organization’s internal testing of more powerful AI models that could bring society closer to AGI.
