OpenAI CEO Sam Altman says AI technology can end global poverty

Addressing concerns about the rapid progress of AI, Sam Altman, chief executive officer of OpenAI Inc, has claimed its advantages outweigh the cost and could even "end poverty".

During an interview at the Bloomberg Technology Summit, Altman acknowledged the numerous ways AI tech could go wrong but highlighted areas where AI could be particularly beneficial, including medicine, science, and education.

He expressed his desire to alleviate poverty but stressed the importance of managing the risks associated with technological advancements.

"I think it’d be good to end poverty," he said. "But we’re going to have to manage the risk to get there."

Altman, who has been actively advocating for increased regulation of AI, has engaged in discussions with officials worldwide about responsible AI stewardship.

He also addressed questions regarding his personal financial gain from OpenAI's success, which is valued at over $27 billion, stating he had "enough money" and that his motivations extended beyond financial interests.

Altman explained the concept of having "enough money" might be challenging for others to comprehend, asserting that the desire to be useful and work on something meaningful is inherent in human nature.

He underlined the significance of navigating the current technological shift, stating that it would be the most crucial step humanity faces.

"I think this will be the most important step yet that humanity has to get through with technology... And I really care about that."