OpenAI eliminates nondisparagement agreements for former employees, causing controversy

From Yahoo Finance: 2024-05-24 00:37:50

OpenAI will no longer enforce nondisparagement agreements for former staff, removing language from exit paperwork after reports revealed the choice between speaking out or losing millions in vested equity. CEO Sam Altman admitted embarrassment and promised to revise company procedures, apologizing for distress caused to employees. Former employees notified by OpenAI that vested units will not be canceled, releasing them from one-sided agreements unless mutual. One former employee reportedly lost significant equity by not signing the agreement upon departure, with unclear resolution after company’s change in policy. Public apology issued by Chief Strategy Officer promising improvements and better communication within the company. OpenAI recently disbanded team focused on protecting humanity from potentially dangerous AI systems, leading to controversy surrounding safety culture within the company. Scarlett Johansson accused OpenAI of copying her voice for ChatGPT’s Sky voice assistant, which the company denies, citing prior casting of another actor. Controversies around the company continue to surface, prompting changes in policies and internal processes to address public concerns.



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