Why is Elon Musk suing Open AI and Sam Altman? In a word: Microsoft.

From Morningstar:

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has filed a legal action against OpenAI, the organization he helped found, alleging a shift from its original non-profit mission to profit-driven motives after partnering with Microsoft. Musk’s concerns stem from the organization deviating from its AI development for humanity’s benefit to prioritize financial gains.

Musk’s disillusionment with OpenAI began in 2018, accusing the organization of no longer operating as a non-profit and engaging in divisive technology. Recent changes in OpenAI’s structure, including Microsoft’s increased influence, fueled Musk’s discontent, highlighting the tech industry’s power dynamics and legal history.

Microsoft’s historic legal battles over market practices align with Musk’s apprehension towards OpenAI’s direction. The tech giant’s recent involvement, solidified by securing a seat on OpenAI’s board, marks a notable shift towards profit-driven priorities and proprietary AI technologies, raising ethical concerns over control and bias in AI models.

While Musk’s lawsuit against OpenAI may face hurdles, potential ramifications could significantly impact the organization’s business model and collaborations. A verdict favoring Musk could compel OpenAI to return to a non-profit status or open-source its technology, affecting revenue generation and Microsoft’s investment. The case could also influence public perception of OpenAI, Microsoft, and advance AI development ethics and regulations.



Read more at Morningstar: Why is Elon Musk suing Open AI and Sam Altman? In a word: Microsoft.