Resurfaced Altman Return Rumors... MS Tells OpenAI Employees "Will Provide Same Compensation"

Microsoft (MS) has made a recruitment offer to OpenAI employees who follow Sam Altman, the 'father of ChatGPT,' promising to provide the same compensation.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

According to economic media CNBC and others, Kevin Scott, MS Chief Technology Officer (CTO), announced this on the 21st (local time) through a post titled 'To OpenAI Partners' on his social media account X (formerly Twitter). CTO Scott said, "We have seen your petitions and appreciate your desire to work with Altman at MS's new artificial intelligence (AI) research lab," emphasizing, "Please know that MS can provide compensation that matches yours and play a role in advancing our shared mission if necessary."

This offer came amid ongoing turmoil surrounding the company following Altman's dismissal by the OpenAI board on the 17th. It was also just one day after MS CEO Satya Nadella announced Altman's joining MS. MS, having recruited Altman, publicly confirmed that it can employ OpenAI staff who follow Altman at the same level of compensation as before.

In particular, the post drew more attention as it was written amid renewed rumors of Altman's return following OpenAI employees' collective resignation threats. Locally, reports have been pouring in since the previous day that the OpenAI board is reconsidering Altman's dismissal and requesting his return. Investors, including Strive Capital, OpenAI's second-largest shareholder, are also reportedly working toward Altman's comeback.

CNBC stated, "The future of OpenAI remains uncertain, and it is unclear where Altman will work," but noted that CTO Scott's post "provides some clarity regarding the employees MS will hire and the scale of compensation."

Accordingly, evaluations continue that OpenAI's fate depends on Altman's whereabouts. In a foreign media interview, CEO Nadella said he is open to the possibility of Altman returning without joining MS. He confirmed, "He is open to both options?staying at OpenAI or coming to MS?and regardless of the decision, cooperation among MS, Altman, and OpenAI will continue."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.