Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, who was fired from the company’s board in a surprise move, is in talks with board members about a possible return to the artificial intelligence startup, according to a Reuters report.
Khosla Ventures’ early OpenAI backer Vinod Khosla said, on November 18, in an X post, “To be clear, Khosla Ventures wants @sama (Sam Altman) back at @OpenAI (OpenAI) but will support him in whatever. he does later.”
The day after his unexpected dismissal, Altman engaged in discussions with OpenAI executives regarding improvements to the company’s management structure. At the same time, he explored the possibility of launching a new AI company with select core OpenAI researchers and individuals who remained loyal to Altman, according to the source.
However, the sources further revealed that the possibility for Altman, who is widely regarded as a leading figure in generative AI, to make a comeback or start a new beginning is uncertain.
Microsoft, which is the largest investor in OpenAI, is involved in damage control discussions. There are considerations, including the possible lobbying for Altman’s reinstatement as CEO, as there is concern about a possible widespread departure of valuable talent without his leadership, according to additional sources.
Allegedly, Microsoft holds a 49 percent stake in the company, with the remaining 49 percent controlled by other investors and employees. The remaining 2 percent is reportedly owned by OpenAI’s nonprofit parent organization.
According to a Reuters report, current and former staff members have expressed frustration over Altman’s firing and concerns about the potential impact of the abrupt management changes on an upcoming $86 billion stock sale.
Last year on November 30, OpenAI, Elon Musk co-founded a non-profit organization, ChatGPT revealed. This event sparked a global fascination with generative AI technology, propelling it to become the fastest growing software worldwide. Later, it triggered a surge in investments and announcements in various industries, all aimed at leveraging AI to improve sectors such as financial services, healthcare, entertainment and media.
Greg Brockman, the former President of OpenAI who resigned after Altman’s resignation on November 17, is expected to participate in any possible initiative, as reported by the Information. This information comes from a source familiar with the situation, as mentioned in their earlier report on the potential new venture.
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Updated: 19 Nov 2023, 10:40 IST