In a surprising turn of events, Elon Musk, along with a consortium of investors, has made a staggering $97.4 billion offer to acquire OpenAI, the organization behind the popular AI model ChatGPT. However, OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, swiftly declined the offer, humorously suggesting they would instead purchase Twitter for a fraction of the price.
Key Takeaways
Elon Musk's group proposed a $97.4 billion bid for OpenAI.
Sam Altman rejected the offer, jokingly offering to buy Twitter instead.
The bid complicates Altman's plans to transition OpenAI into a for-profit entity.
Musk's legal disputes with OpenAI continue to escalate.
The Bid and Its Implications
Elon Musk's proposal, reported by the Wall Street Journal, aims to regain control over OpenAI, which he co-founded in 2015. Musk's attorney, Marc Toberoff, stated that the bid was submitted to OpenAI's board, emphasizing the need for the organization to revert to its original mission as a nonprofit research lab focused on public benefit.
This unsolicited offer comes at a critical time as OpenAI is in the process of transitioning from a nonprofit to a for-profit organization. Altman has plans to invest significantly in AI infrastructure through a partnership called Stargate, which could involve up to $500 billion.
Altman's Response
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Altman responded to Musk's offer with a simple, "No thank you," adding a humorous twist by suggesting they would buy Twitter for $9.74 billion instead. This lighthearted response highlights the ongoing tension between the two tech leaders, who have been embroiled in legal disputes over OpenAI's direction since Musk's departure from the board in 2018.
The Legal Battle
Musk's relationship with OpenAI has soured over the years, leading to multiple legal confrontations. He has accused the organization of straying from its founding principles and has even referred to it as "ClosedAI" in recent statements. Musk's legal actions aim to prevent OpenAI from fully transitioning to a for-profit model, arguing that it undermines the original mission of benefiting humanity.
Future of OpenAI
As the situation unfolds, the future of OpenAI remains uncertain. Musk's bid, while rejected, raises questions about the organization's governance and its commitment to its founding ideals. The ongoing legal battles may further complicate Altman's plans for OpenAI's future, especially as it seeks to establish itself as a leader in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
In conclusion, the rejection of Musk's $97.4 billion offer marks a significant moment in the ongoing saga between two of the tech industry's most influential figures. As both parties navigate their respective paths, the implications for OpenAI and the broader AI community will be closely watched.
Sources
Sam Altman rejects Elon Musk's $97.4B offer to buy OpenAI, Yahoo Finance.
Elon Musk Seeks To Acquire OpenAI, But Sam Altman Declines And Offers Twitter Instead | Digital Market News, Digital Market News.
9to5Neural: Elon Musk tries to buy OpenAI, Sam Altman declines but says they’ll take Twitter - 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac.
Elon Musk offers $97.4B to buy OpenAI, Sam Altman rejects bid | fox43.com, FOX43.
Elon Musk Offers $97.4 Billion For OpenAI Control, Forbes.
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