AI will soon match human capabilities: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has recently shared his perspective on the future of artificial intelligence (AI), stating that while AI will soon match human capabilities, its impact may not be as significant as many expect.

Speaking at The New York Times DealBook Summit, Altman discussed OpenAI's plan to release increasingly powerful AI systems over the next year, with the potential to reach artificial general intelligence (AGI) – machines that can perform nearly any task a human can – within a few years.

However, Altman downplayed many of the concerns surrounding AGI, explaining that the most pressing safety issues would not emerge at the AGI stage. Instead, he suggested that AI could help drive economic growth in ways people might not yet fully grasp, states a recent report by The New York Times.

Altman's comments come at a time when OpenAI is facing growing competition and financial pressure. Microsoft, the company's largest investor with $13 billion invested, has an exclusive license to OpenAI's technology. However, tensions have been rising between the two companies, and the terms of their agreement specify that Microsoft could lose its license if OpenAI reaches AGI, complicating their partnership, suggests the report.

OpenAI is also facing competition from Elon Musk's xAI, which was launched following a fallout between Musk and Altman. Musk has accused OpenAI of prioritising commercial interests over the public good, and of straying from the original vision of the company. As per The New York Times report, Altman expressed regret over the breakdown of their relationship, saying, "I grew up with Elon as like a mega hero."

Altman also addressed concerns about Musk's close ties with President-elect Trump, rejecting the idea that Musk would use his political influence to harm OpenAI, stating it would be "profoundly un-American" to do so.

Since the launch of OpenAI's ChatGPT in late 2022, the AI field has seen massive investment, with OpenAI raising $6.6 billion in October, bringing its valuation to $157 billion. Despite these gains, the company expects to lose $5 billion due to the high costs of AI development, states recent reports. To attract more investors, OpenAI is working to transition into a for-profit entity.