Sam Altman has already responded with a “no thank you.”
In a move that’s turning heads across the tech world, Elon Musk has spearheaded a $97.4 billion offer to acquire OpenAI, the renowned artificial intelligence powerhouse behind ChatGPT. This ambitious bid, backed by Musk’s AI venture xAI and a consortium of prominent investors, aims to steer OpenAI back to its foundational principles of open-source development and safety-focused innovation.
The Genesis of the Bid
On February 10, 2025, Musk’s attorney, Marc Toberoff, confirmed that the proposal had been submitted to OpenAI’s board of directors. Musk emphasized his vision, stating, “It’s time for OpenAI to return to the open-source, safety-focused force for good it once was. We will make sure that happens.”
A Clash of Titans: Musk vs. Altman
The offer has intensified the ongoing rivalry between Musk and OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman. Altman swiftly declined the bid, humorously retorting on X (formerly Twitter), “No thank you but we will buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if you want,” referencing Musk’s 2022 acquisition of the social media platform. Musk responded by labeling Altman a “swindler.”
The Backstory: From Collaboration to Competition
Musk and Altman co-founded OpenAI in 2015 as a nonprofit dedicated to advancing AI for the benefit of humanity. However, Musk departed in 2018 due to strategic disagreements. Since then, OpenAI has transitioned towards a for-profit model to attract substantial investments, a move Musk has publicly criticized. In 2023, Musk established xAI to rival OpenAI in the competitive AI landscape.
Industry Implications and Future Prospects
Musk’s audacious bid has sparked widespread discussion about the future trajectory of AI development. While some industry experts support a return to open-source principles, others express skepticism about Musk’s intentions and the potential impact on OpenAI’s innovative momentum. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are keenly observing how this high-stakes power play will influence the broader AI ecosystem.
This development underscores the dynamic and often contentious nature of leadership within the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
Elon Musk wants to buy everything 😝