Sacked OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman joins Microsoft to lead new advanced AI research team

New Delhi, Nov 20: Microsoft has officially announced the recruitment of Sam Altman, co-founder and recently ousted chief executive of OpenAI. The move comes just 48 hours after Altman's abrupt dismissal, which had sparked speculation about his potential return to OpenAI. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that Altman would be heading a new advanced AI research team within the tech giant.

In the wake of Altman's departure, Emmett Shear, former CEO of Twitch, has been appointed as the new head of OpenAI. Shear expressed his enthusiasm for the role on X, referring to it as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." However, he criticized the handling of Altman's dismissal, describing it as poorly executed and acknowledging that it had damaged trust within the organization.

The OpenAI board's decision to dismiss the 38-year-old Altman, a key figure in the company's founding in 2015 and a prominent face of its growth, sent shockwaves through the generative artificial intelligence (AI) space. Altman's significance in the industry was underscored by expressions of support from influential figures in Silicon Valley, hailing him as a star and hero in the field.

Despite concerns of a potential reinstatement fuelled by investor backlash and Altman's cryptic tweet featuring a guest ID pass, he has opted to join Microsoft. The move quells speculations about Altman establishing a rival company and poaching talent from OpenAI. Microsoft, having invested billions in OpenAI and being home to the popular ChatGPT bot, solidifies its commitment to advancing AI research.