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Sam Altman says OpenAI's new releases make him feel like a 'YC founder' building things in public all over again

Apr 02, 2025 - businessinsider.com
OpenAI recently launched a new image generation feature for ChatGPT, which quickly became popular among users, leading to a significant spike in activity. This surge in usage caused technical challenges, with OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman noting that their GPUs were overwhelmed by the demand. As a result, the company had to implement temporary rate limits while working on improving efficiency. Altman likened the experience to his early days as a Y Combinator-backed founder, highlighting the chaotic yet exciting nature of rapid growth and innovation.

Despite the challenges, OpenAI continues to expand, recently raising $40 billion at a $300 billion valuation, nearly doubling its worth since October. Altman, who has a background in startups and was previously president of Y Combinator, is navigating these growing pains while managing OpenAI's rapid development and scaling efforts. He acknowledged potential delays and service issues as the company addresses capacity challenges, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing performance.

Key takeaways:

  • OpenAI released a new image generation feature for ChatGPT, which was popular with users and led to a record spike in usage.
  • The surge in users caused OpenAI's GPUs to be overwhelmed, prompting the company to introduce temporary rate limits.
  • Sam Altman compared the experience of handling the new feature's release to his early days as a Y Combinator-backed founder.
  • OpenAI announced it raised $40 billion at a $300 billion valuation, nearly doubling its valuation from October.
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