OpenAI Seeks Meta Records in Elon Musk’s $97B Bid Legal Battle
OpenAI Seeks Meta Records in Elon Musk’s $97B Bid Legal Battle
OpenAI has requested that Meta provide documents relating to any coordination with Elon Musk and his AI company, xAI, in connection with Musk’s high-profile $97 billion bid to acquire OpenAI. This request surfaced in a recent court filing linked to Musk’s ongoing lawsuit against the ChatGPT creator.
Background: Subpoenas and Legal Tensions
In June, OpenAI’s legal team subpoenaed Meta for materials that could reveal its potential role in Musk’s unsolicited takeover attempt. The focus is on whether Meta and Musk communicated about financing or investing in OpenAI, particularly through discussions between Musk and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. According to OpenAI, they have evidence of such discussions, including details about possible investments.
After Meta objected to the original subpoena in July, OpenAI is now seeking a court order to gain access to these documents. The company also wants Meta’s internal communications concerning any actual or potential restructuring or recapitalization of OpenAI—central points in Musk’s litigation.
Meta’s AI Ambitions and Industry Moves
While OpenAI navigates its legal dispute, Meta continues to invest heavily in AI research and development. Notable moves include hiring top talent from OpenAI, such as Shengjia Zhao, a co-creator of ChatGPT who now leads Meta Superintelligence Labs. Meta has committed $14 billion to Scale AI and reportedly explored acquisition opportunities with other AI labs, underscoring its intent to be a key player in the next wave of AI innovation.
Meta Responds to OpenAI’s Demands
Meta’s lawyers are pushing back, urging the court to deny OpenAI’s request for evidence. Their argument: Musk and xAI themselves are in a position to provide any relevant information, and Meta’s internal discussions about OpenAI’s business structure are not pertinent to the case at hand.
What’s Next?
This dispute highlights the rapidly evolving and fiercely competitive landscape of artificial intelligence, where major players are not only racing to innovate but also navigating complex legal and business maneuvers. As the case unfolds, it could have significant implications for partnerships, talent movement, and investment in the AI sector.
This story is developing—stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes public.
