World

OpenAI’s Sam Altman tells G20 AI will be as essential as electricity

Al Jazeera · 2026-09-03

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addressed the G20 tech summit in North Carolina, urging global leaders to embrace artificial intelligence (AI), comparing its significance to that of electricity during the industrial revolution. • Why it matters: Altman's remarks highlight the transformative potential of AI and the necessity for countries to integrate it into their economies, warning that failing to do so could hinder future growth and innovation. • What to watch next: As discussions on AI regulation and ethics intensify, attention will be on how G20 nations respond to Altman's call and the policies they implement regarding AI adoption and integration.

**OpenAI’s Sam Altman Advocates for Embracing AI at G20 Tech Summit**

North Carolina - At the G20 tech summit held in North Carolina, Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, delivered a compelling message to global ministers regarding the future of artificial intelligence (AI). Altman emphasized the transformative potential of AI, likening its importance to that of electricity during the industrial revolution.

During his address, Altman asserted that AI is poised to become an essential component of modern society, stating, “A kid growing up today will never be smarter than AI.” This statement underscores the rapid advancements in AI technology and its growing capabilities, which Altman believes will surpass human intelligence in various domains.

Altman urged G20 leaders to embrace AI rather than resist it, framing the decision as critical for the future of economies and societies worldwide. He drew parallels between the current technological landscape and the industrial era, suggesting that rejecting AI would be akin to dismissing the significance of electricity, which was foundational to industrial growth and innovation.

The remarks come at a time when discussions around the regulation and ethical implications of AI are intensifying. As countries grapple with the integration of AI into their economies and daily lives, Altman’s call to action resonates with the need for proactive engagement with this technology.

The G20 summit serves as a platform for leaders to discuss pressing global issues, including technology, economy, and sustainability. Altman's insights contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the role of AI in shaping future policies and practices. His emphasis on the necessity of embracing AI reflects a broader recognition among tech leaders that AI will play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and innovation in the coming years.

As nations consider their strategies for AI adoption, Altman’s address highlights the urgency of fostering an environment that encourages technological advancement while also addressing the ethical and societal challenges that accompany such rapid developments.

Source: Al Jazeera
RELATED NEWS

More Stories

All News
World

How Gulf insecurity fuels US energy dominance

• What happened: US President Donald Trump announced a significant oil deal with Venezuela, securing a 100-year concession on 17 oil fields, while QatarEnergy e...

World

Egypt’s Sisi welcomes China’s President Xi in Grand Egyptian Museum tour

• What happened: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping with a tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, marking Xi'...

World

Photos: Symbolic funerals held in Nepal for missing flood victims

• What happened: Families in Nepal held symbolic funerals at Pashupatinath Temple for over 4,750 missing individuals following a devastating flash flood that oc...

World

Good Good Golf CEO, president quit amid advertisement controversy

• What happened: Good Good Golf's CEO Matt Kendrick and President Joe Flannery resigned following backlash over a controversial advertisement depicting a m...

World

AI-powered robots showcased at European Parliament in Brussels

• What happened: AI-powered robots were showcased at the European Parliament in Brussels, demonstrating their capabilities in delivery, factory, and household t...

World

NBA fines Clippers $30m, suspends several executives in Kawhi Leonard probe

• What happened: The NBA fined the Los Angeles Clippers $30 million and stripped them of five first-round draft picks due to violations of salary cap circumvent...