OpenAI sets out approach to managing AI capability gap and widening access
Artificial intelligence group OpenAI has outlined principles for managing what it calls a growing gap between what advanced AI systems can do and how widely their benefits are being realised.
OpenAI said the so-called “capability overhang” refers to the difference between the rapidly expanding abilities of AI systems and the value most people, businesses and countries are able to capture from them at scale.
In a blog post, the company said adoption of its tools has been faster and more surprising than expected since the launch of ChatGPT three years ago, with users quickly finding new and creative ways to apply the technology.
OpenAI said frontier AI systems are now able to reason and act across increasingly complex tasks, ranging from software development to advanced mathematical research. It cited computer scientist Alan Kay, who said the best way to predict the future is to invent it.
The company said its data shows a significant difference in how people use AI. According to OpenAI, a typical power user consumes around seven times more “thinking power”, and therefore compute resources, than an average user.
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OpenAI said it is taking steps to broaden access and narrow the gap. These include offering a free version of ChatGPT supported by advertising, providing developer access through its API, and working with institutions, including governments, to expand use of AI tools.
The company added that it designs its systems to be flexible and customisable, allowing people to adapt them in ways OpenAI may not have originally anticipated, as part of its effort to ensure AI benefits are shared more widely.
The Recap
- OpenAI warns of a capability overhang in AI deployment.
- Typical power users use 7x more thinking and compute power.
- OpenAI says it offers free tier, API, and institutional support.
