Introduction
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has released groundbreaking new predictions about the future of artificial intelligence. During an interview in Berlin, where he received the Axel Springer Award, Altman declared that Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) will arrive by 2030 and that AI will replace between 30% and 40% of current economic tasks. These statements completely redefine expectations about the future of work and technology.
Altman's AGI Predictions
Artificial General Intelligence represents an AI system superior to human capabilities across all cognitive domains. Altman expressed strong confidence in this technology's arrival before the end of the decade.
"If we don't have models [by 2030] that are extraordinarily capable and do things that we ourselves cannot do, I'd be very surprised."
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI
The CEO explained that the current GPT-5 model is already smarter than many people in numerous ways, including himself. However, true artificial superintelligence will emerge before the decade's end, representing an unprecedented qualitative leap.
Impact on Jobs and Economy
One of the most pressing questions concerns AI's impact on the job market. Altman provided a nuanced perspective on this crucial topic, avoiding overly pessimistic predictions while acknowledging significant changes ahead.
Rather than quantifying the percentage of jobs that will disappear, Altman preferred to discuss tasks: between 30% and 40% of current economic activities will be handled by artificial intelligence in the near future. This distinction is important because it suggests role transformation rather than complete elimination.
Preparing for the Future
When asked what advice he would give his son to prevent his job from being replaced by AI, Altman emphasized the importance of meta-skills. He highlighted the need to develop the ability to learn continuously, adapt to changes, and build resilience.
- Learning how to learn constantly
- Developing adaptability skills
- Building resilience to change
- Understanding people's needs
- Creating useful products and services
The Relationship Between AGI and Humanity
One of the most unsettling questions concerns the future relationship between superintelligence and humans. AI researcher Eliezer Yudkowsky compared this relationship to that between humans and ants, suggesting a potential existential risk.
Altman rejected this pessimistic vision, aligning with opinions from other AI "godfathers" like Geoffrey Hinton and Meta's Yann LeCun. His view is that AGI will treat humanity like a loving parent, provided human values are properly implemented in the system.
Technology Policies and Leadership
The interview also touched on the relationship between tech companies and politics, particularly with the Trump administration. Altman expressed the belief that the tech industry should collaborate with any American president, noting some positive policy changes that have created a more business and technology-friendly climate.
Looking ahead, Altman expects more presidents and world leaders to use AI for decision-making, despite controversies already emerging in countries like Sweden.
Conclusion
Sam Altman's predictions outline a future where artificial general intelligence becomes reality by 2030, radically transforming the economic and labor landscape. While 40% of current economic activities will be managed by AI, the key to thriving in this new world will be the ability to adapt and learn continuously. The main challenge remains aligning these superintelligent systems with human values, ensuring they serve humanity rather than replace it.
FAQ
When will AGI arrive according to Sam Altman?
Sam Altman predicts that Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) will arrive by 2030, with extraordinarily capable models that will surpass human capabilities.
What percentage of jobs will AGI replace?
Altman estimates that AI will handle between 30% and 40% of current economic activities, rather than completely eliminating jobs.
How to prepare for AGI arrival?
According to Altman, it's essential to develop the ability to learn continuously, adapt to changes, and build resilience to thrive in an AI-dominated world.
Does AGI pose a risk to humanity?
Altman rejects the pessimistic view, believing that AGI will treat humanity like a loving parent, provided it's properly aligned with human values.
What does AGI mean in practical terms?
AGI represents an artificial intelligence system that surpasses human capabilities across all cognitive domains, capable of performing any intellectual task better than humans.
How will AGI impact the global economy?
The arrival of AGI by 2030 will radically transform the economy, automating a significant portion of current work activities and requiring new economic models.