- tech360.tv
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Considers New AI Venture, Potential Return
Updated: Jan 5
Sam Altman, the recently ousted CEO of OpenAI, is reportedly in discussions about a possible return to the company while also considering the launch of a new artificial intelligence (AI) venture.
According to a source familiar with the matter, Altman has been engaging with OpenAI executives to improve the company's governance structure, as well as exploring the idea of starting a new AI company with core OpenAI researchers and other loyal individuals.
The source, who requested anonymity, stated that the possibilities of Altman's return or the establishment of a new venture are still uncertain. OpenAI and Altman have not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
Investors in OpenAI, including Microsoft, the company's largest backer, are reportedly concerned about the potential loss of talent without Altman and are discussing the possibility of pushing for his reinstatement as CEO. Vinod Khosla, the founder of Khosla Ventures, an early supporter of OpenAI, expressed his support for Altman's return to the company but also stated that his fund would back Altman in any future endeavors.
Altman's sudden departure from OpenAI has caused a stir among current and former employees, who are expressing their frustration and concern over the impact on an upcoming $86 billion share sale. Some employees have even contemplated leaving the company if Altman is not reinstated by the end of the weekend.
Former OpenAI President Greg Brockman, who resigned in response to Altman's firing, is expected to join Altman in any new venture, according to a person familiar with the matter. However, it remains unclear if other researchers, such as Szymon Sidor, who have left OpenAI due to the CEO change, will join Altman's new venture.
Altman has previously been involved in discussions with Jony Ive, Apple's former design chief, about developing a new AI hardware device. The involvement of SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son in these conversations has also been reported.
According to an internal company memo viewed by Reuters, Altman's removal as CEO was due to a breakdown in communication rather than any wrongdoing. The OpenAI board has reportedly been in discussions with Altman about the possibility of his return as CEO.
Sam Altman, the former CEO of OpenAI, is discussing a potential return to the company while considering the launch of a new AI venture.
Investors, including Microsoft, are concerned about the potential loss of talent without Altman and are discussing reinstating him as CEO.
Former OpenAI President Greg Brockman is expected to join Altman in any new venture.
Source: REUTERS