The keys to the trial between Altman and Musk for the future of OpenAI, creator of ChatGPT

A court in California The trial between Elon Musk and Sam Altman beganin a case that seeks to determine if the magnate was deceived about the course of OpenAIin the middle of a dispute that puts the model and the future of the company at stake.

In addition to Altman and Musk themselves, Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, strategic partner of OpenAI, a company that has also been sued by Musk in this case, is expected to speak.

On the other hand, OpenAI rejects the accusations and states that the lawsuit seeks to Musk takes control of the company and also be able to fully develop your own artificial intelligence company, xAI. The company insists that its goal remains to develop artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity, despite operating under a hybrid model.

Currently, OpenAI operates under a particular structure: a nonprofit parent entity that oversees a limited-purpose company, allowing it to attract private investment — such as that of Microsoft — without, in theory, losing its original mission.

The trial will take place in two phases: first it will be determined if there were irregularities and then possible reparations will be evaluated. The jury’s verdict will be advisory and the final decision will rest with the judge. This first stage is expected to conclude in May.

The case comes at a key time for OpenAI, which is considering an eventual IPO as it faces increased competition and growing questions about the impact and governance of artificial intelligence.