Elon Musk Rings Caution Bell For OpenAI, Microsoft Could 'Cut Off' Ties At Any Point

During a virtual appearance at the All-In Summit, Elon Musk once again expressed concerns regarding Microsoft Corporation’s MSFT significant control over OpenAI, prompting questions about the potential consequences for ChatGPT-parent’s future.

What Happened: Musk’s virtual appearance at the All-In Summit, hosted by Chamath Palihapitiya and other tech luminaries, shed light on his ongoing concerns about OpenAI’s relationship with Microsoft. 

See Also: Elon Musk Takes A Dig At OpenAI Again… This Time It’s About AI Regulations

Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but left in 2018, is no stranger to the dynamics of the AI industry. He pointed out the significant influence Microsoft wields over OpenAI, stating, “They have access to all the source code; they have access to all the weights of the GPT-4 and future versions.” 

This level of access, according to Musk, implies that Microsoft could potentially “cut off OpenAI” at any moment. For the unversed, the Sam Altman-led company was initially founded as an open-source non-profit. It has evolved into a more closed entity, with Microsoft playing a pivotal role.

The tech billionaire also expressed discomfort with entrusting the future of superintelligence with companies like Microsoft and Alphabet Inc. GOOG GOOGL Google.

“Digital superintelligence might be the most significant technology that humanity ever creates. It has the potential to be more dangerous than nuclear weapons,” adding, “I felt uncomfortable leaving the entire future potential of superintelligence in the hands of somebody who called me ‘specist’ for being pro-humanity.” 

Musk was talking about Google co-founder Larry Page, who previously accused him of being a “specist” – someone who favors their own species. 

Musk also talked about the need for a third contender in the AI landscape, one that would offer a viable alternative to the dominance of Microsoft and Google. According to the tech mogul, his new venture, xAI, and Tesla Inc. TSLA are positioned to fill that role. 

He said his electric vehicle company possesses “the best real-world AI,” which he believes is underrated.

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