The Latest from the Musk v. Altman Trial: A Cushioned Perspective
The last latecomers testified Wednesday in the Musk v. Altman trial, a case that has attracted attention not just for its high-profile litigants but also for the unique atmosphere within the courtroom. Among the revelations was Microsoft’s substantial investment exceeding $100 billion in its partnership with OpenAI. However, an intriguing side observation has captured the attention of my colleague Maxwell Zeff and me after nearly three weeks of closely monitoring the proceedings.
A Courtroom Comfort: The Ubiquity of Butt Cushions
The courtroom of U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers is notably dotted with an array of butt cushions. This seemingly mundane detail has become a point of interest. Several of the hardwood benches on the right side of the courtroom are reserved for the defense teams of OpenAI and Microsoft, including lawyers and executives. These individuals, among them OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and general counsel Che Chang, have been seen making use of thick black cushions, notably from the Purple brand, retailing at $120 from Target. These cushions offer much-needed relief from extended hours of sitting. Chang, at one point, utilized a cushion for back support, showcasing a less common yet practical approach.
Pillows for All: A Closer Look at OpenAI’s Strategy
Not only cushions, but crisp white pillows also make an appearance, favored by OpenAI President Greg Brockman and his wife, Anna. These pillows, identifiable by their labels, seem to originate from the Coop brand, known for its affordable down alternative pillows at $35 for a two-pack. On Wednesday, an OpenAI bodyguard was seen carrying a purple purse into the courtroom filled with pillows for the Brockmans, ensuring their comfort. Unfortunately, OpenAI’s chief futurist, Joshua Achiam, found himself without a pillow when he took Brockman’s seat, only managing to secure a standard black cushion later on.
Unexpected Yet Understandable: The Perspective of a Tech Attorney
WIRED reached out to a seasoned tech attorney who commented on the unusual, though not entirely outlandish, presence of cushions in the courtroom. While not a common sight, the attorney acknowledged the unusual duration of this particular trial as a potential reason for the added comfort measures.
Seating Dynamics: The Main Litigants and the Journalists
The primary litigants enjoy the relative luxury of leather chairs, albeit some showing signs of wear and tear. The courtroom, filled to near capacity with approximately 150 attendees, including 90 booth seats, has been a challenging environment for journalists. Despite the discomfort, journalists initially refrained from bringing cushions, perhaps out of reluctance to appear vulnerable. However, after several days of discomfort, some, including a New York Times reporter and the courtroom artist with a uniquely colorful cushion, eventually opted for additional seating support.
Personal Reflections: Seeking Comfort in the Courtroom
Reflecting on my own experience, the discomfort of the benches prompted me to consider a cushion about an hour into my first day. Initially resisting the urge to bring one, I eventually opted for a “cooling” cushion, only to find it ineffective. Ultimately, I abandoned the cushion, observing my fellow journalists making similar adjustments. As the trial progresses, perhaps a more effective seating solution will emerge.
For more insights and updates on the trial, read the full report on WIRED here.
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