Elon Musk, the well-known billionaire and CEO of companies like Tesla and SpaceX, has officially launched xAI, an artificial intelligence startup that aims to compete with established players like OpenAI. The team behind xAI consists of engineers who previously worked at major technology firms, such as Google and Microsoft, signaling Musk's ambition to challenge the existing AI landscape. Musk has consistently expressed concerns about the potential dangers of AI and has advocated for regulations in the industry to prevent "civilisational destruction."
In a recent Twitter Spaces event, Musk detailed his vision for xAI and emphasized the importance of developing a safer AI. Unlike traditional approaches that involve programming morality into AI systems, Musk plans to create a "maximally curious" AI that seeks to understand the true nature of the universe. This approach, he believes, can help ensure that AI remains aligned with humanity's best interests and avoids potential risks.
Musk's predictions include the arrival of superintelligence, AI that surpasses human intelligence, within the next five to six years. With xAI, Musk aims to address the challenges posed by AI advancements and prioritize the safety and well-being of humanity. The startup's website indicates plans for further events and recruitment drives in the San Francisco Bay Area, signaling xAI's commitment to expanding its team and expertise in the field of artificial intelligence.