OpenAI Trial: Altman Says Musk Wanted Control, Heirs

Sam Altman testified in the OpenAI trial that Elon Musk once sought control of the company. Altman claims Musk even discussed passing ownership to his children. This testimony counters Musk's criticism that OpenAI has strayed from its non-profit mission. What's interesting is Altman said Musk pushed for a controlling stake in OpenAI during its early years. He also testified that Musk suggested his control could pass to his children after his death, which made Altman "extremely uncomfortable." Altman further stated that Musk directed co-founders to rank and fire researchers, and floated the idea of merging OpenAI with Tesla. He argued that a merger with Tesla, a car company, would undermine OpenAI's non-profit goals. The bottom line is this trial highlights a significant dispute over OpenAI's direction and leadership.