OpenAI’s Sam Altman Plans to Develop AI Hardware in the United States

OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman is planning a massive buildout of the machinery and systems needed for artificial intelligence, with the initial focus on efforts in US states, according to a source familiar with the matter. Altman had been seeking the US government’s approval for the project, which aims to create a coalition of global investors to fund the costly physical infrastructure required for rapid AI development. The project includes plans to target US states and encompasses various initiatives such as building data centers, increasing energy capacity and transmission, and expanding semiconductor manufacturing. Potential backers are expected to include investors from Canada, Korea, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates.

OpenAI also envisions the involvement of other private companies, including Microsoft Corp., as a potential partner. OpenAI executives, including Altman, have been engaging with investors in various countries to advance the project. Additionally, OpenAI is gearing up for a new multibillion-dollar funding round, with Thrive Capital expected to lead the deal, along with participation from Microsoft, Apple Inc., and Nvidia Corp.

OpenAI has emphasized the importance of building additional infrastructure in the US to further advance artificial intelligence and make its benefits widely accessible, citing the urgent need for US infrastructure to power AI and maintain its technological lead over authoritarian governments. The company is also aligning its plans with the US government’s focus on stronger technology ties, including support for partnerships between technology firms in the US and the Global South.

As OpenAI moves forward with its infrastructure push, it is expected to share more details at a later date.