Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman are embroiled in a dispute over the Stargate artificial intelligence infrastructure project, which was recently endorsed by President Donald Trump. The project, backed by a joint venture investing up to $500 billion, involves OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank in the development of advanced AI technology.
President Trump hailed the initiative as a significant investment in America's potential, with an initial private investment of $100 billion. However, Musk raised doubts about the funding, questioning the financial backing of SoftBank.
Altman defended the project, inviting Musk to visit the construction site in Texas and emphasizing the benefits for the country. The clash between Musk and Altman stems from a longstanding rivalry over the leadership of OpenAI, with Musk accusing the company of deviating from its nonprofit research goals.
The Stargate project, initially reported in March 2024, involves the construction of data centers powered by renewable energy sources. The first phase of the project in Abilene, Texas, is already underway, with plans for additional data center buildings.
Microsoft, a key partner of OpenAI, was notably absent from Trump's announcement, although the company confirmed its investment in the Stargate project. Microsoft's CEO, Satya Nadella, highlighted the company's $80 billion plan to expand its global AI infrastructure, with a significant portion allocated to the U.S.
The feud between Musk and Altman reflects broader tensions in the tech industry over AI development and investment strategies. As the dispute continues, the future of the Stargate project and its implications for the advancement of AI technology remain uncertain.
