From Financial Times: 2024-06-13 00:00:15

OpenAI has rapidly increased its international lobbying team from three staff members to 35, with plans to grow to 50 by 2024. The company aims to shape regulations on AI safety that could impact its growth. Despite lagging behind Big Tech in lobbying efforts, OpenAI is strategically positioned globally.

OpenAI’s global affairs unit focuses on AI legislation in countries such as the UK, US, and Singapore. The company played a role in discussions around the EU’s AI Act. OpenAI argued against certain regulations regarding its models, but its most capable models will be subject to the act’s rules. The company hired Chris Lehane, a former policy chief at Airbnb, to strengthen its public works team.

OpenAI engages in discussions with policymakers concerning its Voice Engine model, which can create custom voices. The company is running workshops in countries facing elections this year and grants one-to-one access to its models in unsafe areas. OpenAI aims to address mistrust in Silicon Valley companies and ensure flexible rules for future advancements in technology.



Read more at Financial Times: OpenAI expands lobbying team in battle to influence regulation