SoftBank Bets Big on OpenAI, Predicts AI's Future

SoftBank is placing a significant bet on the future of artificial intelligence (AI), with CEO and Founder Masayoshi Son announcing a massive investment in ChatGPT-maker OpenAI. The Japanese tech conglomerate plans to invest 4.8 trillion Japanese yen (around $33.2 billion) in the AI company, which is currently unlisted and not profitable. Son believes OpenAI will eventually become “the most valuable company in the world.”

Speaking at a shareholder meeting, Son outlined SoftBank’s long-term goal to play a leading role in the era of artificial superintelligence (ASI). He described ASI as AI that is 10,000 times smarter than humans. The company has been expanding its partnership with OpenAI this year, including joining the $500 billion Stargate project.

Son also shared a revealing anecdote from the meeting. He disclosed that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman had once approached SoftBank for a $10 billion investment before Microsoft signed its now well-known partnership with the AI firm. “I said, yes, I would,” Son told shareholders. However, Altman ultimately chose Microsoft. The software giant recently lost its exclusive cloud provider status with OpenAI and has not approved a reported restructuring plan to make OpenAI a traditional for-profit company.

Despite the changing dynamics between Microsoft and OpenAI, Son reiterated that SoftBank’s commitment remains unwavering. The company had previously stated it might reduce its stake if OpenAI doesn’t restructure by December 31. However, Son clarified on Friday that their support will continue “regardless of what happens with Microsoft.”

OpenAI is central to SoftBank’s vision of building the world’s largest ASI platform. Son aims for the company to become the “organizer of the industry in the artificial superintelligence era” within the next decade. SoftBank already owns Arm, the UK-based chip company, and recently acquired U.S.-based chip designer Ampere for $6.5 billion. The company is also reportedly exploring the creation of a $1 trillion AI-focused industrial complex in the United States.

This strategic move underscores SoftBank’s ambition to lead the AI revolution and capitalize on the transformative potential of ASI. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, SoftBank’s bold investments and forward-thinking vision position it as a key player in the future of AI.