Michelle ThompsonOpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, secured $6.6 billion in new funding, with backing from investors like Microsoft. This brings the company’s valuation to $157 billion, placing it among the world’s most valuable start-ups.
The funds will help OpenAI remain a leader in AI research. However, recent internal challenges have caused debate, particularly around CEO Sam Altman’s plans to turn the company into a for-profit entity, which has raised concerns from some staff and critics, including co-founder Elon Musk. Musk believes the company has strayed from its original mission of creating AI to benefit humanity.
OpenAI, credited for popularizing AI, says this investment will enhance its research efforts, boost computing power, and expand tools to tackle complex problems. Backers in the latest round include Thrive Capital, SoftBank, Nvidia, and Microsoft, with investors having the option to withdraw if the company’s transition to a for-profit model doesn’t occur within two years.
Despite facing challenges, including leadership turnover and operational strains, OpenAI remains a major force in AI, boasting 250 million weekly users and a projected $3.6 billion in revenue. However, projected losses are expected to surpass $5 billion.
