The AI project in question, known as Q*, is believed to be a breakthrough in the search for artificial general intelligence (AGI). The model was able to solve certain mathematical problems, which is considered a frontier of generative AI development. Researchers have flagged the potential danger of highly intelligent machines, such as the possibility of them deciding that the destruction of humanity was in their interest.
Key takeaways:
- Several staff researchers at OpenAI, ahead of CEO Sam Altman's four-day exile, wrote a letter to the board of directors warning of a powerful artificial intelligence discovery that could potentially threaten humanity.
- The letter and an AI algorithm were key developments leading to the board's ouster of Altman, with over 700 employees threatening to quit in solidarity with their fired leader.
- OpenAI is working on a project called Q*, which some believe could be a breakthrough in the search for artificial general intelligence (AGI), a system that surpasses humans in most economically valuable tasks.
- Researchers have flagged the potential danger of highly intelligent machines, such as the possibility of them deciding that the destruction of humanity was in their interest.