Former Elon Musk's Subordinates On X Defect To Sam Altman, Here's Why!

Nick Pickles, the former head of global affairs on Elon Musk's X social media platform (photo; x @AlexaBlockchain ·)

JAKARTA Nick Pickles, a former head of global affairs on Elon Musk's social media platform X, is now working with one of Musk's rivals, Sam Altman. Pickles will serve as Chief Policy Officer at Tools for Humanity, a company that develops technology to support the World Network, formerly known as Worldcoin.

Pickes, who resigned from X last September, revealed that its role in Tools for Humanity will focus on building a policy framework for new, controversial technologies. One of World Network's main projects is World ID, a slice-scanned digital identity that aims to prove human identity online, distinguishing it from an AI-based bot.

Pickes stated that rapid AI developments could soon surpass traditional mechanisms, such as Captcha, in distinguishing humans from bots.

"This is on the verge," said Pickes. "During my time on X and Twitter, the problem that continues to arise is: 'Is this account real or bot?' I see every day how this issue will be the core of online interactions in the future."

During his 10 years on X (formerly Twitter), Pickes became the company's main representative in establishing relationships with heads of state, regulators, and policymakers in various international forums. He was also recently promoted last July, before finally resigning two months later.

Pickles' move comes amid a legal dispute between Musk and Altman over OpenAI, which was co-founded by the two in 2015. Musk sued Altman over alleged contract violations that prioritized profits over the public interest. Pickes declined to comment on the case.

In his interview, Pickes also expressed his optimism for a new regulatory framework under the administration of President-elect Donald Trump. His first priority at Tools for Humanity is recruiting lobbyers in Washington to strengthen ties with policymakers.

With the joining of Pickles, the Tools for Humanity is expected to accelerate the implementation of the innovative technology they offer, although they still face significant regulatory and privacy challenges.