Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has outlined a plan aimed at ensuring broader access to the economic advantages generated by artificial intelligence. According to internal data shared by Axios, ChatGPT currently processes over 2.5 billion messages daily, with 330 million of those originating from the United States. This figure highlights the widespread adoption of the AI chatbot, which sees over 500 million weekly users globally, most of whom rely on the free version.
Altman has been engaging with policymakers and participating in public forums in Washington this week to promote what one of his advisors described as a “third path” approach—one that avoids both unbridled optimism and undue alarmism. Speaking at a Federal Reserve conference, he emphasized that AI not only enhances productivity but should also be made widely accessible to prevent economic gains from being monopolized by a select few.
His central message revolves around the idea that the expansion of economic opportunities through AI should not be restricted to a privileged group. As one source explained, “The issue isn’t whether the economic pie will grow, but who gets which slice.” Altman’s vision, as outlined, seeks to balance innovation with inclusivity, ensuring tools are available to the public so they can benefit from technological disruption rather than be excluded by it.
This week marks a significant moment for AI policy in the U.S. Alongside Altman’s appearances, former President Donald Trump is set to headline the “Winning the AI Race” summit, hosted by All-In podcast and the Hill & Valley Forum. Meanwhile, the White House is expected to unveil its long-awaited AI Action Plan, which Axios reports will emphasize deregulation and economic growth.
In both public and private discussions, Altman has stressed the importance of making AI accessible across all sectors of society. He also plans to present a new economic report co-authored by OpenAI’s chief economist, Ronnie Chatterji, during a banking conference on Tuesday, where he will appear alongside Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman.
This push echoes Altman’s 2024 op-ed in The Washington Post, where he advocated for a democratic model of AI development led by the U.S., countering authoritarian regimes investing heavily to dominate the field.
— news from Laboratorio de Periodismo Luca de Tena