OpenAI might rebrand its data centers as 'AI compute campuses'

OpenAI may rename its data centers as 'AI compute campuses,' according to Axios, whose reporting TechCrunch summarized. The idea is part of a broader effort to shape the debate over artificial intelligence after the midterm elections. Chris Lehane, OpenAI's chief global affairs officer, discussed the plans with Axios.

Post-midterm PR push

Axios reports that OpenAI is preparing a public relations blitz after the midterm elections on Tuesday. Democrats seem likely to win back the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate, too. Lehane told Axios the midterms will be 'a bit of a movie trailer for what you're going to see in 2028,' when he expects AI to be 'the issue' in the presidential election.

Proposals from OpenAI

To influence the AI debate moving forward, Lehane discussed several proposals. These include developing AI 'speed limits,' finding ways to help people see AI as empowering them in their daily lives, and pushing the United States to take a role in developing global standards. He also raised rebranding data centers as 'AI compute campuses.'

Data center debate

Lehane described the conversation around data centers as 'good and healthy.' The debate has pushed Amazon and Microsoft to say they will no longer use NDAs in their negotiations with local governments. 'Communities should hold companies responsible and accountable so they really and truly get a transformative benefit from these projects,' he said.

Sources: TechCrunch · Techmeme