Artificial intelligence is transforming the economy. Companies are using AI products to automate processes, better understand customers, and drive innovation. OpenAI plays a key role in this. OpenAI products, including ChatGPT and DALL·E, have long since arrived in German companies.
A Current Bitkom study The data shows that one in six companies already uses AI. Another 23 percent are planning to implement it. Interest is growing in the public sector. Universities are using AI models for research. Start-ups are developing specialized AI solutions for the European market.
On February 7, 2025, Prof. Dr. Fatma Deniz moderated a discussion at the Technical University of Berlin. Panel discussion with Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, Nicole Büttner, CEO of Merantix Momentum, and Prof. Dr. Volker Markl, Co-Director of BIFOLDThe discussion focused on the impact of AI on science, business, and society. The importance of OpenAI for AI development in Germany was highlighted.
Germany is the largest market for OpenAI in Europe. The number of German users tripled in 2024, and Germany ranks among the top four worldwide for business customers. Furthermore, after the USA, Germany has the most AI developers using OpenAI technology and APIs.
The integration of AI products is progressing rapidly. More and more developers are using OpenAI interfaces to make their software smarter. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are testing AI-powered automation. The public sector is exploring potential applications within government agencies. Universities are integrating AI into their curricula.
The AI transformation is gaining momentum. From our perspective, AI development in Germany can be divided into three phases:
| User | First arrival (until 2022) | Experimental phase (2023) | Introduction to Applications (2024–2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Developer | The first AI startups are emerging. | OpenAI APIs are being tested | AI is being actively integrated into software. |
| Universities | Research begins, pilot projects | First AI modules in degree programs | AI established in curricula and research |
| Private companies | Initial tests with AI solutions | Chatbots and automation tested | AI-supported processes in production |
| Public hand | Strategy papers, funding | First AI experiments in government agencies | AI in administration and citizen services |
A significant milestone: OpenAI is planning an office in Germany. Munich will be the location for OpenAI's first office in the German-speaking world. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, sees great potential in Germany. In an interview with Handelsblatt, he said: "Europe is an important market for us. Germany plays a central role in this."
Munich is an excellent location. The city is a leading technology hub. Major companies like Siemens, BMW, and SAP are investing in AI. The Technical University of Munich and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) are conducting intensive research on AI applications. OpenAI will find a strong ecosystem here.
The office will not only be responsible for sales and marketing. Developers, researchers, and AI experts will work there on new projects. OpenAI is actively seeking talent in Germany.
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