OpenAI is ending its collaboration with Scale AI, reports Bloomberg. The decision was made after Meta announced the acquisition of a 49% stake in the AI project.
Scale AI provides data labeling services for training neural networks. Among the startup’s clients are Meta’s direct competitors, including Microsoft.
According to an OpenAI representative, the company began reducing its reliance on the project even before the deal with Meta. He added that the ChatGPT developer was seeking other suppliers to support more complex AI models.
OpenAI noted that over the past 6-12 months, the company realized that Scale AI could not provide the necessary expertise in data. OpenAI is creating advanced AI models that mimic human thinking, and they require different contractors, the representative stated. One of the new partners is the startup Mercor, according to Bloomberg.
However, just last week, OpenAI’s CFO Sarah Fry stated the intention to continue working with Scale AI.
Competition
As part of the $14.8 billion deal, Meta hired the startup’s founder, Alexandr Wang, for its new division. This raised concerns that the corporation would gain access to competitors’ developments.
According to Reuters, Google also plans to end its collaboration with Scale AI. The agency reported that other clients are considering ending their partnerships as well.
Under the terms of the agreement, Meta acquired a 49% non-voting stake in Scale AI. Journalists highlighted that this format is known as acquihire — acquiring a company for its employees.
Interim CEO of Scale AI, Jason Droege, assured that the startup “definitely remains an independent company.” He added that “nothing has changed in the commitments to protect client data.”
On June 16, OpenAI secured a $200 million contract from the Pentagon to develop prototypes of advanced AI solutions.