OpenAI has rejected Elon Musk’s offer to buy the company. This move has only escalated the existing lawsuit between Musk and OpenAI. The refusal comes amid OpenAI’s attempts to get more information on what role Meta Platforms, Inc. has played in Musk’s potential acquisition. Maxwell Zeff, a senior reporter at TechCrunch who covers AI, broke an incredible story. This legal battle puts focus on the depths of Musk’s xAI ambitions and his long history with OpenAI.
This past Wednesday, October 25th, OpenAI walked the walk, it filed an amicus brief in the lawsuit brought against Musk. They requested that Meta submit documentation regarding its potential dealings with him. This request focuses on whether Meta has or had any plans to acquire or invest in OpenAI, the creator of the immensely popular ChatGPT. That’s a big ask. Behind the scenes, it might reveal alliances or deals that would impact the trajectory of both firms in question.
According to Zeff’s report, Meta spokesperson Andy Stone responded to inquiries by directing TechCrunch to a specific section of OpenAI’s legal filing. That section explicitly states that neither Meta nor its CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, signed Musk’s letter of intent concerning the acquisition. This claim throws yet another wrinkle into what has already proven to be a complex and head-scratching legal fight.
Based in San Francisco, Maxwell Zeff has reported on the countless consequential changes shaking up the tech industry. His specialization in artificial intelligence makes him intimately involved with the proliferation of artificial intelligence technologies. He’s deeply critical of their implications—especially when implemented dogmatically—across Silicon Valley. With an impressive journalism pedigree, including stints at Gizmodo, Bloomberg, and MSNBC, he’s a creative and passionate storyteller. There, he covered the biggest news stories, such as the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank.
As this process continues, the technology community is listening intently. OpenAI’s position as a leader in AI innovation continues to be challenged by Musk’s ambitions and his new venture, xAI. The court cases could establish important legal precedents for future public-private partnerships and investments in the tech hub.
TechCrunch is preparing for an incredible Unplugged event in San Francisco on October 27-29, 2025. At the same time, they are doing battle with an active lawsuit. This convening would ideally focus on conversations related to developing artificial intelligence and the ethics of such development. Zeff’s coverage of this event is expected to provide insights into how major players like OpenAI and Meta navigate their roles amid evolving technologies and public scrutiny.
