• Elon Musk claims pivotal role in the creation of OpenAI, citing his contributions to the company’s name and recruitment of key scientists and engineers.
• Musk alleges that Microsoft exerts control over OpenAI, a claim strongly denied by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.
• Musk expresses concerns over OpenAI’s direction, questioning its profit-capping model and emphasizing the need for greater emphasis on safe AI development.

In a recent interview with CNBC’s David Faber, Tesla CEO and South African born entrepreneur Elon Musk made bold assertions about his involvement in the creation of OpenAI, an influential artificial intelligence (AI) company. Musk claimed credit for conceptualizing the name of the company and played a significant role in recruiting top scientists and engineers. However, he also leveled serious allegations against tech giant Microsoft, asserting that they exert control over OpenAI—a claim promptly refuted by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.

Musk, known for his entrepreneurial ventures and visionary ideas, revealed his early support for OpenAI, initially committing a substantial investment of R19 Billion ($1 billion). Ultimately, he contributed approximately R190 million ($50 million) after withdrawing due to disagreements over the company’s pace of advancement and its capped-profit model. Musk raised concerns about the direction of OpenAI, emphasizing the need for greater emphasis on safe AI development.

While Musk signed an open letter in March, along with other notable figures in the field, calling for a pause in advanced AI development to establish safety measures, he acknowledged its limited impact. His decision to establish X.AI, a rival AI firm, in April seemed at odds with his cautionary stance. However, Musk clarified that signing the letter was an action he wanted to undertake “for the record.”

OpenAI, currently at the forefront of AI research and development, has yet to respond to Musk’s claims. As of now, an OpenAI spokesperson was not available for immediate comment on the matter.

During the interview, Musk also shared insights into his past friendship with Larry Page, co-founder of Google. He disclosed that they engaged in extensive conversations about the nature of artificial intelligence. However, Musk expressed disappointment with Page’s apparent lack of concern for AI safety. Musk recounted an incident where Page referred to him as a “species-ist” for prioritizing human consciousness over machine consciousness—a remark that proved to be the “final straw” in their relationship.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella swiftly denied Musk’s claims regarding the company’s control over OpenAI. While the nature of their involvement remains subject to speculation, Musk’s assertions have sparked renewed interest in the intersection of technology and artificial intelligence.

Elon Musk’s influence in the AI landscape continues to shape discussions and developments in the industry. As one of the most prominent figures in technology and innovation, his viewpoints on AI safety and the trajectory of companies like OpenAI hold significant weight.