In a surprising turn of events, Microsoft has made a strategic move by hiring former OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and co-founder Greg Brockman to lead its newly formed advanced AI research team. This decision follows Altman’s unexpected dismissal from OpenAI, where employees had sent a letter to the board demanding his removal, citing alleged inconsistencies in communication with the board.
OpenAI, known for its mission to develop safe artificial general intelligence (AGI) for the benefit of humanity, had transitioned from a non-profit to a capped-profit model. Altman’s removal on November 17 raised eyebrows across the AI industry, with the board citing a lack of consistent candor in his communications as the reason for his departure.
OpenAI’s newly appointed interim CEO, Emmett Shear, clarified that Altman’s removal was not related to safety concerns but acknowledged that the communication surrounding it had been mishandled. The situation further escalated as OpenAI employees expressed displeasure on social media, with a reported large-scale revolt within the company.
In an unexpected move, Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced on November 20 that Altman and Brockman would be leading a new advanced AI research team at Microsoft. Nadella emphasized Microsoft’s commitment to partnering with OpenAI despite the recent developments. The news triggered a coordinated expression of dissatisfaction from OpenAI employees on social media, suggesting internal discontent and a potential exodus if the board refused to step down.
It also revealed a document signed by 505 of 700 OpenAI employees threatening to resign and join Altman if the board did not resign. The employees accused the board of negotiating in bad faith and failing to provide specific details about Altman’s termination. Microsoft’s assurance of immediate positions for OpenAI employees at the new subsidiary added a layer of complexity to the unfolding situation, with Nadella hinting at providing autonomy to Altman’s AI research team within Microsoft.