 "Sam Altman-led OpenAI is targeting 1 billion users for ChatGPT. File image/AFP")
OpenAI is aiming to reach 1 billion users by 2025 as it rolls out new artificial intelligence products, builds its own data centres, and strengthens its partnership with Apple.
The San Francisco-based company, known for its ChatGPT chatbot with 250 million weekly active users, plans to introduce AI “agents,” a proprietary AI-powered search engine, and deepen integration of ChatGPT with Apple devices.
“We are coming into our own as a research lab serving millions and aiming for billions of consumers worldwide,” Financial Times cited Sarah Friar, OpenAI’s chief financial officer, as saying.
The company recently raised more than $6 billion in funding at a valuation of $150 billion, making it the highest-valued startup in Silicon Valley’s history. Friar said OpenAI plans to continue raising both equity and debt to fuel its growth, including constructing data centres in the US Midwest and Southwest.
“We’re in a massive growth phase,” she said, adding that advancing AI models remains a costly endeavour.
Expanding AI reach
OpenAI’s strategy includes launching “agents” — advanced chatbot-like assistants that perform web tasks, such as booking services or gathering information. Friar said 2025 could see the first highly successful agents helping users with everyday needs.
Integration with Apple devices, which began last month in the US, is expected to significantly boost user numbers. A venture capital investor said OpenAI could quickly reach its goal of 1 billion users, using Apple’s global base of 2 billion iPhones.
Impact Shorts
More Shorts“If you get to that threshold, you’re competing with Google and Facebook,” the investor said.
OpenAI’s transition from a non-profit to a for-profit business has seen the company expand its headcount to more than 2,000 employees and focus on monetising AI products to offset costs exceeding $5 billion annually.
Navigating political hurdles
OpenAI’s growth comes as it navigates a politically charged environment. Chris Lehane, the company’s policy chief and a veteran political strategist, is engaging with US policymakers to position OpenAI as a leader in “democratic” AI, countering Chinese-led technological advancements.
Lehane said the company has been in discussions with the incoming Trump administration about AI’s role in national security and economic competitiveness.
While tensions with former co-founder Elon Musk persist — including a lawsuit filed by Musk accusing OpenAI of deceit — Lehane stressed alignment with federal priorities on AI leadership.