Elon Musk Confirms xAI Utilized OpenAI Models Under Oath

Published on April 30, 2026

For years, the AI industry has thrived on a spirit of competition and innovation. Companies like OpenAI and xAI have been pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence. Traditionally, each firm kept its research methods private, focusing on developing unique models.

In a recent deposition, Elon Musk revealed that xAI has indeed used models developed enhance its own systems. He claimed this practice is common among AI research labs, indicating a collaborative undercurrent despite public rivalries. This admission has raised eyebrows within the tech community.

The implications of Musk’s statement are far-reaching. It suggests that the lines between competitive firms may be blurrier than previously thought. Researchers could start re-evaluating their reliance on in-house models versus incorporating external advancements to remain competitive.

As a result, xAI may face intensified scrutiny over its practices. Meanwhile, OpenAI could leverage this moment to highlight its own intellectual property. The incident underscores the evolving dynamics of the AI landscape, where collaboration and competition intersect in unexpected ways.

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