Microsoft Appoints Ex-OpenAI Leaders Altman and Brockman to Lead Innovative AI Research Team
Microsoft has made a strategic move by hiring the former co-founders of OpenAI, Sam Altman and Greg Brockman, to spearhead a groundbreaking AI research initiative. This decision follows the unexpected dismissal of Altman by OpenAI's board, leading to intense discussions that culminated in this major development, as announced by Microsoft's CEO, Satya Nadella, on Monday.
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The duo, Altman and Brockman, renowned for their roles in shaping OpenAI, will lead a new advanced AI research team at Microsoft. Altman will assume the role of Chief Executive for this innovative group. Nadella expressed confidence in allowing founders and innovators the space to build independent identities, drawing parallels with Microsoft's successful ventures like GitHub, Mojang Studios, and LinkedIn.
In addition to Altman and Brockman, the team will welcome former OpenAI top talents, including Szymon Sidor, Jakub Pachocki, Aleksander Madry, with more anticipated to join, according to Brockman's post on X.
Nadella emphasized Microsoft's commitment to the startup despite being taken by surprise with OpenAI's sudden board decision. The company has invested over $10 billion in OpenAI, acquiring almost 50% ownership. The move to secure Altman and Brockman reinforces Microsoft's competitive edge, safeguarding against the poaching of their expertise by other major technology companies.
More than two dozen OpenAI employees tweeted, “OpenAI is nothing without its people,” in an apparent support of Altman and in defiance of the OpenAI board.
Altman, recognized as the public face of OpenAI, has played a pivotal role in the AI landscape, leading the most valuable U.S. startup. Microsoft's significant investment in OpenAI has not only supercharged its AI efforts but also positioned the company as a kingmaker for startups building on its software offerings.
The surprising decision by OpenAI's board to remove Altman, citing a lack of consistent candor, prompted protests from many members and led to Altman pitching a new AI venture to investors over the weekend, according to reports.
