OpenAI Considers Slowing Advanced AI Development
AI firm OpenAI is considering reducing the pace of its cutting-edge artificial intelligence development. CEO Sam Altman hopes other companies in the sector will follow suit, citing safety concerns.
OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence company, is reportedly contemplating a slowdown in the development of its most advanced AI systems. CEO Sam Altman has expressed a desire for other major AI firms to adopt a similar approach, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.
This consideration was reportedly shared with OpenAI employees during a recent all-hands meeting. Altman acknowledged that such a slowdown might involve coordination with other AI labs, but also recognized that not all companies may agree to participate.
The discussions come amid growing internal anxieties within leading AI companies regarding the escalating risks associated with highly advanced AI systems. OpenAI's chief scientist, Jakub Pachocki, has previously published warnings about AI dangers, suggesting that companies should "coordinate to slow down progress on future capabilities when necessary."
OpenAI has previously stated it has slowed down the development of certain models and paused specific internal AI training due to safety concerns. Altman had also discussed the "necessity" of slowing AI development with White House officials earlier this year.
The internal concerns have been amplified by public statements from industry figures. Recently, Jacob Coxon, a researcher at Anthropic, resigned, accusing his former employers, including OpenAI, of "gambling with our lives" in the race towards superintelligent AI. Coxon's comments, suggesting AI could pose an existential threat within the decade, gained significant traction online and drew attention from policymakers.