#BrainFood 06.20.24
Fun/Scary AI drama to start your day. Buckle up…
Ilya Sutskever, a co-founder and former chief scientist of OpenAI, has recently announced his next venture following his departure from OpenAI in May 2024. Sutskever, who played a significant role in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies at OpenAI, is now focusing on a new project called Safe Superintelligence Inc. (SSI).
Background and Departure from OpenAI
Sutskever's departure from OpenAI came after a period of internal strife, including a failed attempt to oust CEO Sam Altman in November 2023. This attempt led to significant governance issues within the company and ultimately resulted in Sutskever and Jan Leike, co-lead of the Superalignment team, leaving the organization under contentious circumstances.
Safe Superintelligence Inc. (SSI)
Sutskever's new venture, Safe Superintelligence Inc., aims to develop a powerful and safe artificial intelligence system. The company is unique in its approach, focusing solely on creating a safe superintelligence without engaging in other commercial activities. This focus allows the company to avoid the distractions and pressures of managing a complex product line and competing in the market.
Mission and Vision
The mission of SSI is to address what Sutskever and his team consider the most pressing technical challenge of our time: building a safe superintelligence. The company aims to ensure that the AI systems they develop are aligned with human values and do not pose existential risks. This goal reflects Sutskever's long-standing concerns about the potential dangers of advanced AI systems.
Team and Operations
Joining Sutskever in this endeavor are Daniel Gross, formerly of Apple, and Daniel Levy, who previously worked with Sutskever at OpenAI. The company will have offices in Palo Alto, California, and Tel Aviv, Israel. The team brings together a diverse range of expertise, positioning them well to tackle the complex challenges of creating safe superintelligence.
Strategic Approach
SSI's strategy involves insulating its operations from short-term commercial pressures, allowing the team to focus entirely on their mission. The company will not release any products or engage in any activities other than developing a superintelligence. This approach is designed to ensure that safety remains the top priority throughout the development process.
Conclusion
Ilya Sutskever's move to establish Safe Superintelligence Inc. marks a significant shift in his career and the broader AI landscape. By focusing exclusively on the development of safe superintelligence, Sutskever aims to address critical safety concerns associated with advanced AI systems. The venture's success could have profound implications for the future of AI and its impact on humanity.