Sources: 
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman envisions a near future where AI agents evolve into collaborative teammates by 2026, capable of discovering new knowledge and solving complex business problems.
Speaking at the Snowflake Summit 2025, Altman highlighted how AI tools like ChatGPT are currently used similarly to junior employees, assisting with tasks but with potential to do much more.
“I would bet next year that in some limited cases, at least in some small ways, we start to see agents that can help us discover new knowledge, or can figure out solutions to business problems that are kind of very non-trivial,” Altman said.
This vision suggests a shift from AI as mere assistants to active problem-solving partners, potentially transforming workflows and innovation.
In related developments, former OpenAI chief scientist and co-founder Ilya Sutskever expressed caution about the release of artificial general intelligence (AGI), proposing a protective "doomsday bunker" for safety measures, though he noted entry would be optional.
Altman’s forecast underscores the rapid evolution of AI capabilities and the balancing act between innovation and safety in the field.
Key quote: “I would bet next year that in some limited cases... we start to see agents that can help us discover new knowledge.”
Statistic/Fact: AI agents like ChatGPT are currently used similarly to junior employees, indicating growing trust and utility in business contexts.
Sources: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman predicts by 2026 AI agents will act as teammates, helping discover new knowledge and solve complex business problems. Speaking at Snowflake Summit 2025, he likened current AI use to junior employees and foresees agents tackling non-trivial challenges soon.
