A year after the launch of the world-renowned generative AI platform ChatGPT, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, which developed the program, affirmed to AFP his support for regulatory controls in this technological revolution, provided that it does not impede the remarkable progress in the field.
Altman’s comments came on the heels of his participation in a conference alongside top executives from Google and Meta (Facebook and Instagram’s parent company) at the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco this week. Despite its success, ChatGPT and other platforms capable of generating text, images, and sounds upon simple requests also raise serious concerns, particularly regarding democracy (widespread media misinformation) and employment (replacement of jobs).
Speaking about the artists who have expressed frustration with OpenAI’s applications, Altman said, “We really hope these tools will be adopted by creators as aids.” He emphasized the need to find a successful economic model and the importance of allowing people to decide if they want to participate in this new AI-driven ecosystem.
This year, artists, programmers, and writers, including George R.R. Martin, author of the “Game of Thrones” series, filed complaints against OpenAI and its startup competitors in California. They accused the companies of using their works to create their interfaces without respecting copyright laws or compensating them.
In Hollywood, the historic strike by screenwriters and actors, which recently ended, focused particularly on their concerns about AI being used to exploit them in cinematic works.
AI and China:
Regarding the use of AI in China, Altman admitted his limited knowledge. The APEC summit highlighted the intense economic and political competition between the United States and China. Beijing uses AI for population surveillance, especially through facial recognition. In April, Chinese authorities announced that AI tools would be examined to ensure they reflect “the core socialist values and do not contain elements that undermine the authority of the state.”
AI in American Elections:
The regulation of AI is also being discussed in European and American parliaments, aiming to prevent its use for discrimination, manipulation, or fraud. Altman asserts that OpenAI and other American AI giants are calling for new rules, with the condition that they do not slow down the incredible advancements being made. The US government is particularly concerned about the role generative AI will play in the 2024 election campaign. The technology facilitates the creation of highly realistic montages (“deepfakes”) and false content, potentially enhancing misinformation campaigns.
Altman acknowledged the many unknowns in AI, especially concerning video content, and stressed the need for close monitoring and swift response, especially during the election year. The rapid evolution of AI presents an unprecedented challenge, requiring a delicate balance between innovation and regulation to ensure its ethical and beneficial use.
