OpenAI Trial: 5 Key Points From Elon Musk’s Court Questioning (Image credit: AI-generated) Tech mogul Elon Musk faced nearly three hours of questioning on Wednesday in a civil trial that involves OpenAI. The Tesla CEO’s testimony is a part of Musk’s lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging the organisation has drifted away from its original non-profit mission and turned to a for-profit company. This case focuses on the business direction, control, and internal decisions at the San Francisco-based AI company. Here are five key points that emerged during the high-stakes trial in California. As per Business Insider, one of the questions that arose in the trial was why Musk waited until 2024 to file a lawsuit against OpenAI despite leaving the company in 2018. Musk stated in the court that he supported the idea of a for-profit arm only if it served the nonprofit mission. Moreover, he suggested that things changed, saying the revised structure seemed like “the tail is wagging the dog.” The xAI chief also highlighted Microsoft’s $10 billion investment in OpenAI in 2022 as a turning point. He added, “Microsoft would only put $10 billion, which is a huge sum of money, into something if they feel like they will get a return.” He believes there is no way Microsoft is giving such a huge amount as a donation. Moreover, he revealed that he texted Altman at the same time, asking, “What the hell is going on?” and called the situation “a bait and switch.” Venture capitalist Shivon Zilis’ meetings and messages with Musk came under detailed questioning. Court evidence reportedly noted Musk asked Zilis in 2017 to help create a for-profit structure for OpenAI. However, Musk responded, “That’s not my recollection.” Another important message showed Musk telling Zilis to stay close and friendly to OpenAI and ‘keep information flowing.' Musk said he wanted to know what was going on. As per the report, the email highlighted Musk was considered for a similar role to CEO at OpenAI, but he rejected it. He wrote about concerns that being seen as a co-CEO could create issues at SpaceX and Tesla, where he has major responsibilities. During the trial, it was revealed how OpenAI planned to compensate employees in its initial days. Despite being a non-profit, Musk and Altman reportedly discussed offering strong pay packages including salaries, bonuses, and stock options. Another detail that emerged during the questioning was Musk offering perks like Tesla cars to attract top talent. Emails suggested offers of Tesla vehicles to some employees. The Tesla CEO clarified, “To make it clear, I paid full price for the Teslas. I didn’t get a discount or anything.” The courtroom battle is expected to continue for three to four weeks, with both parties expected to face further questioning. Notably, the outcome of the case could shape how AI companies may balance nonprofit goals with their commercial partnerships. Get Latest News live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Technology Science and around the world. Govind Choudhary is the Chief Copy Editor for Tech at Times Now with over five years of experience in the media industry. He covers consumer technolog... View More