OpenAI Denies Musk's Claims on 'Fictive' Founding Agreement Amidst Intense Legal Dispute

OpenAI has vigorously responded to Elon Musk's allegations of breach of contract, labeling his claims as "incoherent" and based on "convoluted factual premises." In its initial legal submission regarding Musk's lawsuit, OpenAI asserts that it has not breached any foundational agreement and emphasizes the absence of such an agreement.

OpenAI argues that Musk has created a "fictional" narrative around a supposed Founding Agreement to unjustly claim credit for the success of an enterprise he once supported, then abandoned. According to their court filing, "The Founding Agreement is instead a fiction Musk has conjured to lay unearned claim to the fruits of an enterprise he initially supported, then abandoned, then watched succeed without him."

Musk's lawsuit calls for OpenAI to make its technology accessible to the public; however, OpenAI countered that these demands are just as "extraordinary" as the claims Musk alleges. The organization stated, "Musk requests an order compelling OpenAI to reorganize and distribute its technology in accordance with the terms of his fictitious contract."

Since the lawsuit's filing, OpenAI has taken a proactive stance. Last week, it released a series of emails demonstrating Musk’s support for their transition to a for-profit model, along with his acknowledgment that certain scientific advancements cannot be shared publicly. They suggest that Musk's renewed interest in the organization arises from jealousy over its accomplishments, asserting he wishes to claim that success for himself.

OpenAI's filing explicitly notes, “He brings this action accusing defendants of breaching a contract that never existed and duties Musk was never owed, demanding relief calculated to benefit a competitor to OpenAI.” Additionally, the company has expressed apprehension that the discovery process could allow Musk access to its proprietary technology and records.

As Musk prepares to release his Grok project as open source, OpenAI has maintained a strict policy of keeping its foundational technologies confidential since the introduction of GPT-4 last year. The organization insists that any access to their underlying systems must be “carefully policed” by the court to protect its intellectual capital.

Furthermore, OpenAI has requested that the court classify this litigation as a "complex case," ensuring it is handled by a judge experienced in such matters. This precaution aims to prevent the case from becoming overly burdensome as it progresses through the legal system.