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With an artificial intelligence boom on the verge, OpenAI finally reinstates former CEO Sam Altman to the head of the company only days after his initial firing. This recent development has been brought forward amidst speculation and scant transparency regarding Mr. Altman's dismissal.
In what is shaping up to be a tumultuous period for OpenAI, new details have emerged regarding Sam Altman's exit from the organization. According to an article by the New York Intelligencer, Sam Altman, the co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, was fired from his position last Friday due to the fact that he was not completely honest with the company he led. OpenAI said that there was a "deliberative review process by the board, which concluded that he was not consistently candid in his communications with the board, hindering its ability to exercise its responsibilities." Although this company was considered by numerous people to be the beginning of an AI revolution, the company viewed Mr. Altman as someone who "the board no longer has confidence in his ability to continue leading OpenAI."
Despite initial reports indicating irreparable differences between Altman and OpenAI's board, a surprising reversal of decision has recently surfaced. According to a Reuters article, the situation of firing and re-hiring Sam Altman as the CEO of OpenAI was confusing as the board of OpenAI has revealed little reason why they fired Mr. Altman in the first place. However, this situation will overall favor Altman and Microsoft, according to analysts. Microsoft has given billions to the beginnings of the company and the distribution of its products to consumers across the globe. Danni Hewson, AJ Bell's head of financial analysis says, "There are still huge questions about why Altman was fired and why Microsoft had been kept in the dark about the decision. What does seem clear is that Microsoft will now play a much bigger role, that the partnership will become stronger and the two companies more integrated."
In light of these developments, Sam Altman's response to his firing and subsequent rehiring has garnered significant attention. Sam Altman tweeted Wednesday explaining his devotion to the AI company and that even in the light of the situation, he still desires to keep its "team and its mission together". He says, "When I decided to join Microsoft on Sunday evening, it was clear that was the best path for me and the team. With the new board and with Satya’s support, I’m looking forward to returning to OpenAI, and building on our strong partnership with Microsoft". Despite the board's obvious disapproval of Mr. Altman, he has made it evident he continues to support the AI company.