Elon Musk once proposed handing control of OpenAI to his children in what Sam Altman described as a “hair-raising” idea. The revelation came during Altman’s testimony in the ongoing Musk v. Altman trial.
Musk’s lawyers pressed Altman on allegations of deception and his network of financial investments. Altman countered by portraying Musk as fixated on controlling the company.
The exchange highlighted the deepening rift between the two tech leaders. Musk co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but later left the organization.
Altman testified that Musk’s vision for the company frequently clashed with OpenAI’s stated mission. Musk wanted more direct oversight, while Altman pushed for independence.
The trial centers on claims that OpenAI strayed from its original nonprofit ethos. Musk alleges the company’s profit-driven structure betrays its founding principles.
Altman defended OpenAI’s current structure, arguing it enables necessary growth and innovation. He described Musk’s early involvement as intense but ultimately unworkable.
Court documents show Musk’s concern over OpenAI’s shift toward commercial interests. The case has drawn widespread attention from the tech industry and investors.
A ruling in the trial could reshape perceptions of corporate governance in AI development. Both sides remain entrenched in their positions as legal arguments continue.
