OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has recently introduced a novel concept to address financial struggles, termed as ‘universal basic compute.’ Altman discussed this idea on the ‘All-In’ podcast, proposing a system where individuals receive a portion of GPT-7’s compute power, which they can utilize, sell, or donate for various purposes like cancer research.

Altman, a proponent of universal basic income, believes that as artificial intelligence becomes more pervasive, owning a share of advanced AI models like GPT-7 could hold more value than traditional currency. This ownership could translate into a stake in productivity, according to Altman.

Universal basic income, a recurring unconditional payment to all adults regardless of their financial status, has gained traction in the tech industry as a safety net against job displacement due to AI advancements. Altman initiated his own basic-income trial in 2016, providing cash payments ranging from $50 to $1,000 monthly to over 3,000 participants for three years.

Various cities and states in the US have also experimented with similar concepts, such as guaranteed basic income, offering no-strings-attached cash to individuals based on need or social criteria. While these initiatives have shown positive outcomes, some critics argue that such programs could discourage workforce participation, with instances like the Texas Supreme Court blocking a $500 monthly payment program for low-income individuals.

Despite the potential benefits of ‘universal basic compute,’ Altman has not provided detailed insights into its operational mechanics. However, the concept underscores the evolving landscape of financial support mechanisms in response to technological advancements.