Archive · 27 Jul 2026
Sam Altman reveals TikTok addiction while developing AI app
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, recently shared his experience with TikTok addiction.
While working on an AI video app called Sora, he decided to use TikTok to understand its user experience.
He initially thought he could control his usage but soon found himself spending hours on the app.
Altman described his addiction as similar to a drug, enjoying it in the moment but realizing it was bad for him.
Eventually, he had to delete the app.
He also mentioned turning off all notifications on his phone, calling it a 'big life upgrade'.
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, became addicted to TikTok while developing the AI app Sora.
He initially used TikTok to understand the user experience and avoid creating a similarly addictive app.
Altman's TikTok usage escalated from 10 minutes to hours, describing it as a drug-like addiction.
He eventually deleted the app and turned off all notifications on his phone.
Altman's experience highlights the potential for social media addiction even among tech industry leaders.
- Who
- Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI
- What
- Sam Altman's experience with TikTok addiction while developing an AI app
- When
- Recent podcast episode
- Where
- During the development of the Sora app
- Why
- To understand the user experience and avoid creating a similarly addictive app
TikTok as a Productive Tool
TikTok as a Harmful Addiction
Productivity and Entertainment
TikTok as a Productive Tool
TikTok can be used in moderation for relaxation and entertainment without causing harm.
TikTok as a Harmful Addiction
TikTok is designed to be addictive and can lead to significant time wastage and negative impacts on mental health.
- Sam Altman
- CEO of OpenAI
- TikTok
- Social media platform known for short-form video content
- Sora
- AI video generation app developed by OpenAI
- Addiction
- Compulsive use of TikTok leading to significant time wastage
- Notifications
- Altman turned off all notifications on his phone
