Within 24 hours of the announcement, reports emerged that the board was in discussions to reinstate Altman, due to pressure from investors and partners. Microsoft, a major OpenAI partner, has significant leverage as OpenAI has only received a fraction of Microsoft’s recent $10 billion investment. The board's decision has led to an uncertain future for OpenAI, with more employees reportedly resigning and Altman and Brockman approaching investors about a new AI-chip-focused venture.
Key takeaways:
- The board of OpenAI removed CEO Sam Altman, causing a backlash from investors, partners, and employees who were more comfortable with the idea of the board's power than its actual exercise.
- Just over 24 hours after Altman's removal, reports suggested that the OpenAI board was in talks to have him return, due to the ire and panic of investors and employees.
- Microsoft, a major OpenAI partner, and other key venture capital backers of OpenAI, including Khosla Ventures and LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, were reportedly upset about the decision and were not given advance notice. Some are contemplating a lawsuit against the board.
- Several top AI researchers and executives at OpenAI have resigned following the board's decision, including OpenAI’s president and co-founder Greg Brockman, and three senior researchers. More employees are reportedly tendering their resignations.