OpenAI boss Sam Altman says Musk wanted control of company
dw.com • • general
Key Points:
- OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testified in a federal trial, denying Elon Musk's claim that Altman betrayed OpenAI's founding mission to serve the public good, and instead accused Musk of seeking majority control of the company.
- Musk alleges that Altman, OpenAI president Greg Brockman, and OpenAI abandoned their nonprofit roots to become a for-profit entity, while OpenAI counters that Musk's lawsuit is motivated by revenge after failing to gain control.
- Altman revealed Musk initially demanded a 90% equity stake in OpenAI, later softened but still a majority, which Altman found uncomfortable, especially given Musk's suggestion of passing the company to his children.
- Musk seeks approximately $150 billion in damages, demands OpenAI revert to nonprofit status, and wants Altman and Brockman removed, which could affect OpenAI's competitive position in the AI industry.
- Musk's lawyers challenged Altman's honesty during cross-examination, citing claims of a "toxic culture of lying," but Altman maintained he is an honest and trustworthy businessperson; the trial continues with a verdict expected by mid-May.