Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has acknowledged a rushed announcement of an agreement with the US Department of War, calling it "opportunistic and sloppy" following significant user backlash. Altman stated the company moved too quickly to formalize the deal without adequate explanation.
The contract, which allows OpenAI's technology on classified military networks, led to a 295% surge in ChatGPT uninstalls in the US within 24 hours. A campaign to boycott the chatbot also caused a 775% spike in one-star app store reviews. Competitor Claude saw a rise in downloads.
OpenAI is revising the agreement to explicitly prohibit domestic surveillance of US persons, citing constitutional and national security laws. The updated terms will prevent deliberate tracking or monitoring of Americans. The Defense Department confirmed its services would not be used by intelligence agencies like the NSA without further contract modifications.
Altman emphasized that AI governance requires democratic oversight and that private companies should not dictate societal direction. OpenAI plans to collaborate with governments while protecting civil liberties. The company will hold an all-hands meeting to address employee concerns regarding this significant government integration decision.