Elon Musk and Sam Altman cofounded OpenAI in 2015 alongside other tech leaders, aiming to develop AI for humanity’s benefit. Musk, a vocal critic of AI risks, stepped down from OpenAI’s board in 2018, citing disagreements over its direction and potential conflicts with Tesla's AI efforts.
Tensions escalated when Musk’s proposal to run OpenAI was rejected, leading him to withdraw funding. He has since criticized OpenAI for becoming profit-driven and less transparent.
Despite these conflicts, Altman has called Musk a hero, acknowledging his concern for AI’s future. Recently, both signed a letter urging a pause on advanced AI development.