OpenAI's shift from non-profit to for-profit: Why it's controversial and what it could mean

OpenAI, originally founded as a non-profit to develop AI for societal benefit, is controversially shifting towards a for-profit model, raising concerns about its commitment to safety and ethical AI development. This transition aims to attract more investment, as OpenAI faces rising costs, but critics fear it could prioritise profit over responsible AI advancement. The restructuring has coincided with high-profile executive departures, suggesting internal disagreements over this direction. The move signals a broader industry trend towards commercialising AI, sparking worries about a "race to the bottom" where safety takes a backseat, and underscores the need for regulatory oversight in AI development.