Hundreds of employees at OpenAI are considering leaving the prominent artificial intelligence firm to join Microsoft, escalating a crisis initiated by the sudden removal of CEO Sam Altman.

Following Altman's dismissal by the board on Friday, he has now been recruited by Microsoft to spearhead the development of a new advanced AI research team. Reports suggest that OpenAI is interested in Altman returning, potentially contingent on specific conditions. Microsoft's CEO, Satya Nadella, expressed interest in collaborating with OpenAI and Altman, emphasizing a continued partnership.

A vast majority of OpenAI's 770-strong workforce, in a letter released to the media, indicated their inclination to follow Altman unless the board responsible for his departure resigned. Microsoft has reportedly assured OpenAI employees of positions within a new subsidiary if they decide to switch.

One of the key AI executives at Microsoft confirmed that they would welcome employees from OpenAI if the board that removed Altman doesn’t step down. Among the signatories was co-founder Ilya Sutskever, expressing regret for participating in the actions of the board.

Mira Murati, initially appointed as Altman's replacement but lasting only a brief period over the weekend, was another signatory to the letter.

Despite pressure from major investors, OpenAI appointed Emmett Shear, former CEO of Amazon’s Twitch, as its new CEO. Nadella emphasized Microsoft's commitment to its partnership with OpenAI, despite the ongoing turmoil.

Altman, known for the launch of ChatGPT, faced concerns about underestimating the risks of AI and diverting from the company's mission, leading to his removal. However, reports suggest a push from investors to reinstate him.

In response, OpenAI defended its decision in a memo sent to employees, citing concerns about Altman's behavior and lack of transparency.

Emmett Shear confirmed his interim CEO position at OpenAI while addressing reports suggesting Altman's termination due to AI safety concerns. Shear acknowledged mishandled communication regarding Altman's removal, resulting in damaged trust within the organization.

Read more;https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/11/openai-staff-threaten-mass-exodus-to-join-ex-ceo-altman/