OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Admits 'Wrong Side of History' in Open-Source Debate During Reddit AMA
February 1, 2025
On January 31, 2025, OpenAI executives, including CEO Sam Altman, participated in a Reddit AMA to discuss the company's AI roadmap and current challenges.
During the AMA, Altman acknowledged that OpenAI has been 'on the wrong side of history' regarding open-source technology and emphasized the need for a strategy shift.
He expressed personal support for publishing OpenAI's research, indicating that the company's closed approach has hindered its progress.
The growing momentum of open-source AI is prompting OpenAI to reevaluate its strategy and adapt to the competitive landscape.
Altman praised DeepSeek's model for its low-cost, high-performance capabilities, recognizing it as a significant challenge to OpenAI.
Altman acknowledged that OpenAI's models do not reveal their reasoning processes, a notable drawback compared to DeepSeek's models that display their thought process step-by-step.
Altman's reflections signal a potential new chapter for OpenAI, where adapting to an open-source world may be crucial for its future success.
As part of this new strategy, OpenAI is considering releasing older AI models that are no longer state-of-the-art, although no final decision has been made.
DeepSeek has gained attention for its R1 chatbot, marketed as a cost-effective and high-performance open-source project, contrasting with OpenAI's closed systems.
OpenAI is facing increased competition from Chinese companies like DeepSeek, which it accuses of intellectual property theft.
The conversation during the AMA hinted at the potential of artificial general intelligence (AGI), raising concerns about uncontrollable outcomes.
Despite current losses on premium subscriptions, OpenAI plans to make its services more affordable over time, with no immediate price hikes for ChatGPT Plus.
Summary based on 12 sources
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Sources

Times Of India • Feb 2, 2025
China's DeepSeek 'divides' OpenAI: I personally think we have been on the wrong... ChatGPT maker CEO Sam Altman
The Indian Express • Feb 3, 2025
‘Need a new open-source strategy’: OpenAI’s Sam Altman as DeepSeek gains ground
FRANCE 24 • Feb 1, 2025
OpenAI chief says it needs new open-source strategy
Firstpost • Feb 3, 2025
OpenAI on the wrong side of history and needs a new open-source strategy says CEO Sam Altman