OpenAI CEO Sam Altman boldly submitted an idea to the UK government. This is providing all UK citizens with Free ChatGPT Plus as part of the country’s digital infrastructure. The plan aimed to establish a wide-ranging public AI access initiative. However, when UK officials protested the shocking £2 billion price tag, it was canceled. Furthermore, although discussions are still exploratory, the concept shows how AI could be incorporated into crucial public services.
Sam Altman Faces Roadblock On £2B AI Idea
Altman allegedly brought up the idea of a nationwide rollout of ChatGPT Plus with Peter Kyle, the UK’s Technology Secretary. The intention was to make access to AI a fundamental service for all citizens. However, the estimated £2 billion (roughly $2.5–2.7 billion) price tag was deemed unaffordable. Kyle apparently did not take the idea seriously, largely because of the high budget.
Could National Rollout Truly Transform UK Services?
This proposal was part of broader discussions about AI collaboration, which included a non-binding MoU between OpenAI and the UK. The agreement referenced targeted deployments rather than universal access to public services like defense, justice, and education.
Critics also raised concerns about privacy, copyright, and the power of big tech firms. However, this incident caused individuals to wonder if subscription AI could be integrated into vital public infrastructure.
Will Free ChatGPT Plus Become A Reality Soon?
Despite the Free ChatGPT Plus proposal’s failure, the debate highlights a growing change in how governments perceive access to AI. The UK is still investigating AI investment and is in talks with Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI. Therefore, the national rollout idea might not materialize anytime soon. However, it reflects changing standards for digital citizenship, tech equity, and innovation in public service.
Free ChatGPT Plus Could Redefine Public AI Access
Sam Altman’s bold plan to make Free ChatGPT Plus available to all UK citizens demonstrates the growing interest in AI-led governance innovation. Although the cost concerns prevented immediate action, the concept itself suggests a possible change in the direction of state services.
Additionally, copyright, privacy, and fair competition continue to be major obstacles. As the UK develops its AI strategy, other models, such as focused implementations in public services, might prove more practical. However, the proposal lays the groundwork for considering AI as a digital infrastructure that is available to everyone.
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