• OpenAI confirms delay in training GPT-5 amid concerns from industry and academia.
• CEO Sam Altman emphasizes the need for further work and evaluation before initiating GPT-5 training.
• OpenAI actively engages with regulators globally, advocating for responsible AI development and safety measures.

OpenAI has announced a delay in the training of its highly anticipated language model, GPT-5. The decision comes in response to concerns expressed by industry executives and academics regarding the rapid advancement of large language models. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, addressed the issue during a conference hosted by the Indian newspaper Economic Times, shedding light on the organization’s current focus and commitment to ensuring responsible AI development.

Altman explained, “We have a lot of work to do before we start that model. We’re working on the new ideas that we think we need for it, but we are certainly not close to it to start.” His statement reflects OpenAI’s acknowledgment of the apprehensions voiced by over 1,100 signatories, including prominent figures like Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, who signed an open letter urging a temporary pause in the training of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4.

Although Altman recognized the open letter’s lack of technical nuance, he reiterated that OpenAI has not initiated the training of GPT-5 and has no immediate plans to do so. Altman emphasized the organization’s commitment to conducting thorough evaluations of potential risks and implementing stringent safety measures. This includes external audits, red-teaming, and safety tests to ensure responsible and secure deployment of AI technologies.

Altman’s visit to India is part of OpenAI’s proactive strategy to engage with lawmakers and industry players worldwide, fostering confidence in their dedication to collaborate with regulators. In various meetings, Altman has urged policymakers to carefully consider the potential risks and unintended consequences associated with the widespread proliferation of AI. His aim is to encourage the establishment of regulatory frameworks that strike a balance between innovation and mitigating risks, thereby minimizing any potential adverse effects.

Altman also clarified OpenAI’s stance on regulation, affirming that their call for regulation primarily applies to larger organizations such as themselves, rather than smaller AI startups. He stated, “The only regulation we have called for is on ourselves and people bigger.”

OpenAI’s decision to delay the training of GPT-5 showcases the organization’s commitment to addressing concerns surrounding the rapid advancement of AI. By prioritizing safety measures and responsible development, OpenAI aims to establish trust among stakeholders and foster a collaborative environment with regulators. As they continue their research and development efforts, OpenAI strives to strike a balance between innovation and risk mitigation, ensuring the responsible deployment of AI technologies in the future.