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Elon Musk is no stranger to controversy, and his ongoing legal battle with OpenAI is yet another chapter in his complex narrative. Recently, his lawyers have made a surprising claim that has caught the attention of many: that Musk “does not use a computer.” This assertion was made in a court filing amidst a lawsuit involving OpenAI and an alleged breach of contract. However, public evidence and Musk’s own digital footprint challenge this claim. The ensuing debate raises questions about the tech mogul’s relationship with technology and the broader implications of his legal strategies.
The Lawsuit Against OpenAI
In February 2024, Elon Musk and his company, xAI, initiated a lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the organization of abandoning its founding mission. According to Musk, OpenAI deviated from its original goal of developing artificial intelligence “for the benefit of humanity,” opting instead to “maximize profits for Microsoft.” This lawsuit highlights the tension between the altruistic aspirations of AI development and the commercial realities that often come into play.
The core of the legal dispute revolves around a breach of contract, with Musk asserting that OpenAI’s actions were not in line with their initial agreement. The case has drawn significant attention, not only because of the high-profile individuals and companies involved but also because it touches on the ethical considerations surrounding AI development. As AI continues to evolve, the balance between innovation and ethical responsibility remains a critical issue in the tech industry.
Elon Musk’s Digital Footprint
Despite claims that Musk “does not use a computer,” his digital activities suggest otherwise. Musk’s presence on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), is well-documented. He has posted images of laptops and made numerous references to his computing activities. For instance, in December 2024, Musk shared a picture of a laptop, claiming he was “testing Starlink streaming while in flight.” Such posts contradict the notion that he does not engage with computers.
Further evidence of Musk’s computer usage comes from his interactions with followers on X. In May 2025, he mentioned his “ancient PC laptop with the @DOGE sticker,” indicating his use of a specific device. These public statements and images reveal a pattern of computer use that challenges his legal team’s assertions. The discrepancy between his lawyers’ claims and his online behavior raises questions about the motivations behind such statements and their potential impact on the lawsuit.
The Role of Mobile Technology
While the claim that Musk does not use a computer is contentious, it is acknowledged that he primarily relies on his mobile phone for work. Multiple employees at X have confirmed that Musk is often seen using his phone for various tasks. This reliance on mobile technology is not uncommon among tech leaders, who value the portability and connectivity that smartphones offer.
However, the distinction between mobile and computer usage is not as clear-cut as it might seem. Modern smartphones possess computing capabilities that rival traditional computers, blurring the line between the two. Musk’s preference for mobile technology may reflect a broader trend in how tech executives manage their digital lives. Nevertheless, the assertion that he does not use a computer at all remains suspect, given the evidence of his interactions with laptops and desktops.
Implications and Reactions
The claim that Elon Musk does not use a computer has sparked reactions across the tech community and beyond. OpenAI, for its part, has declined to comment on the specifics of the lawsuit, referring instead to its official filings. The public, however, has been quick to scrutinize the claim, pointing to Musk’s extensive digital footprint as evidence to the contrary.
This legal drama underscores the complexities of modern technology usage and the narratives that surround influential figures like Musk. As the lawsuit continues, it remains to be seen how these assertions will play out in court and what impact they will have on the outcome. For now, the tech world watches closely, eager to see how this high-stakes legal battle will unfold.
As the legal proceedings between Elon Musk and OpenAI progress, the tech community is left pondering the implications of this case. How will the claims about Musk’s computer usage influence the court’s decision, and what does this mean for the future of AI development and corporate accountability in the tech industry?
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Wait, how does Elon Musk run his companies without a computer? 🤔