Sam Altman has taken an unprecedented step by claiming that OpenAI already holds the key to developing artificial general intelligence (AGI), a milestone that will mark a before and after in the technology. This statement comes at a crucial time for the company, which is redefining its goals and corporate structure while facing criticism for its apparent distancing from concerns about AI safety.
As revealed on his personal blog, the OpenAI CEO is not only confident that he has achieved the ability to create AGI, but is already aiming for superintelligence. The transformation could come sooner than expected, considering that Altman has suggested that these superintelligent systems could be just a few thousand days away.
OpenAI accelerates its path to superintelligence while reorganizing its priorities
The concept of AGI has a clear definition for OpenAI: highly autonomous systems that outperform humans in most economically valuable work. Altman’s vision for the immediate future is extraordinarily ambitious, especially as he anticipates AI agents will be integrated into the workforce and materially change business output as early as this year, though he acknowledges current limitations such as hallucinations and obvious errors.
Artificial general intelligence could change the world in revolutionary ways, and OpenAI is convinced that its current tools are just the beginning. The future Altman envisions is one of abundance and prosperity, powered by superintelligent tools that could massively accelerate scientific discovery and innovation beyond our current capabilities.
The ChatGPT founder had already stated that this goal was achievable with today’s technology, and now he’s taking it a step further. The business implications are significant, especially considering that OpenAI loses money on ChatGPT Pro and that its agreement with Microsoft states that Microsoft will lose access to the technology when it generates $100 billion in profits.
OpenAI’s restructuring has raised serious concerns, especially as artificial superintelligence could soon be here. The internal changes have been drastic, including the disbanding of teams dedicated to the security of superintelligent systems and the departure of researchers who question the company’s business direction.
This new direction stands in stark contrast to OpenAI’s previous statements. The shift is especially notable when we recall that in July 2023, the company admitted to not having solutions to control superintelligent AI or prevent unforeseen behavior. Now, in the face of criticism over security, Altman is simply referring to his history, as the company prepares for a restructuring that will make it more attractive to outside investors.
