The AI Conflict: Power Struggles and Public Backlash Unfold

2026-03-25 · MIT Tech Review AI · Original

The battle for AI dominance is heating up as Anthropic and the Pentagon clash over the potential militarization of Anthropic’s AI model, Claude. Meanwhile, OpenAI has made waves by striking a controversial deal with the Pentagon, described as both "opportunistic and sloppy." This turmoil has led to a significant number of users abandoning ChatGPT, reflecting growing discontent. In a striking display of public sentiment, thousands marched through London, marking the largest protest against AI technologies to date. As the AI landscape evolves, the tensions between corporate interests and public opinion become increasingly apparent, signaling a pivotal moment in the industry.