Photo: Reuters

Published: Sun 19 Nov 2023, 4:42 PM

The just ousted CEO of OpenAI, Sam Altman, is reportedly discussing a possible return to the company while also considering launching a new artificial intelligence (AI) venture. Altman was let go by the board in a move that surprised the tech world. After his dismissal, discussions between Altman and OpenAI executives were focused on improving the company’s governance structure. Additionally, Altman was in talks with some core OpenAI researchers and supporters about starting a new AI company.

An inside source familiar with the matter said that Altman’s potential return or the launch of a new venture are uncertain at this time. OpenAI and Altman have not responded to requests for comment. However, investors in OpenAI, including Microsoft, are discussing damage control and are considering pushing the board to restore Altman as CEO to prevent a mass exodus of talent from the company. Khosla Ventures, an early backer of OpenAI, expressed support for Altman and stated that they would back him in his next endeavor.

Emotions ran high among employees, as current and former workers expressed anger and concern over the sudden management upheaval. It is reported that some employees are contemplating quitting if Altman is not restored by the end of the weekend. Former OpenAI President Greg Brockman, who resigned from OpenAI over Altman’s firing, is expected to join any new effort. Additionally, some researchers at OpenAI have quit the company over the CEO change.

OpenAI, a nonprofit co-founded by billionaire Elon Musk, experienced a global sensation with the launch of its ChatGPT bot. The success of generative AI technology has led to a wave of investments and announcements across industries, prompting regulators to revise AI regulations. The sudden management upheaval at OpenAI has raised concerns among investors and employees, as an upcoming $86 billion share sale’s success could be affected by the recent events. Reports suggest that Altman’s ouster was due to a “breakdown of communications” and not “malfeasance.”

As the situation continues to unfold, further discussions between Altman and OpenAI’s board may determine the future of the company and Altman’s potential involvement. Potential new ventures in AI and hardware hardware devices for Altman have been reported, indicating a series of changes within the industry.