It has recently become known that the OpenAI startup will still retain a structure that implies the primacy of a non-profit board of directors. However, such a decision will still not satisfy Elon Musk, who has long insisted that OpenAI refuse to turn into a commercial structure. This became known from the words of the American billionaire’s lawyer.
As noted today, Elon Musk stood at the origins of OpenAI, but at a certain stage his interests and views diverged from the management of the startup, after which he left it. Since 2019, OpenAI has been operating within the framework of a specific business model, which implies the presence of a commercial component, but is managed by a non-profit foundation. At this stage, OpenAI has refused to strengthen the role of the commercial component, which could have reassured some critics but did not change Musk’s position.
Musk’s Legal Challenge Continues
Bloomberg quotes Marc Toberoff, a lawyer representing Elon Musk in this dispute, as saying: “OpenAI’s announcement is a transparent ploy that does not address the underlying issues: charitable assets will continue to be transferred to enrich individuals, including Altman, his investors, and Microsoft.” According to Musk’s representative, the partial refusal to restructure OpenAI “changes nothing.”
As is known, the court previously allowed Musk to continue legally pursuing OpenAI, so given the arguments presented by the billionaire’s lawyer, it can be assumed that the litigation will continue, adds NIX Solutions. “The fundamental mission is still betrayed,” Musk’s legal representative commented on his position, explaining that the updated OpenAI restructuring plan is simply aimed at eliminating legal obstacles, but does not correspond to the startup’s original mission, which is to develop AI for the benefit of all humanity.
While OpenAI emphasizes its commitment to a structure governed by a non-profit board, the conflict with Elon Musk highlights ongoing concerns over how the company balances its mission with its commercial ties. We’ll keep you updated as more details emerge and as legal proceedings unfold.