OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has sparked a debate on artificial intelligence (AI) regulation by suggesting that smaller AI startups should be exempt from regulations. Altman stated that there should be no regulation on smaller companies, and that only larger organizations, including OpenAI itself, should be regulated. Altman’s views challenge the prevailing narrative in the industry that uniform regulations should be imposed across the board. Investors currently face challenges valuing companies involved in AI product development, but Altman believes that, in the long term, the potential impact and value of AI are significantly underestimated. While Altman acknowledged that AI could lead to job losses, he also said that new and better opportunities would emerge.
Altman’s comments come amid a global tour that he is currently undertaking, which aims to engage with key figures and heads of state on the need for AI regulation. Through these talks, OpenAI has revised its perspective on the debate surrounding AI governance. While Altman’s earlier criticisms of planned AI laws in Europe stirred controversy, further fueling the ongoing debate on AI governance, his current views suggest a more nuanced approach to regulation based on the size of AI startups. Benzinga’s Consumer Tech coverage explores these issues in more detail.
