Sam Altman Says “Perfect Memory” Could Drive Next AI Breakthrough

Sam Altman has predicted that the next major step toward superhuman artificial intelligence will come when AI systems develop «infinite, perfect memory».

Speaking on the Big Technology Podcast, the OpenAI chief said future AI assistants could eventually remember «every detail of your entire life», from conversations and documents to daily work, something no human can do. Altman suggested OpenAI is working toward such capabilities as early as 2026.

Current advances in large language models, including ChatGPT, have focused largely on improving reasoning skills. However, Altman said memory remains «very crude» and represents a key frontier for the technology.

His comments come amid intensifying competition in the AI sector, following the launch of Google’s latest Gemini model. While reports suggested OpenAI declared a «code red» after Gemini’s release, Altman downplayed the threat, saying competitive pressure is a normal part of the industry.

Altman said OpenAI’s strategy remains focused on building the best models, products and infrastructure. ChatGPT currently has around 800 mln users worldwide, though its market share has slipped slightly as rivals such as Google’s Gemini continue to grow.

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