The Musk v. Altman trial has reached a noteworthy point, with plaintiffs and defense teams having completed their cases. Amidst the testimony—most notably, Microsoft’s hefty investment of over $100 billion into OpenAI—an unusual distraction has emerged: the extensive use of butt cushions in the courtroom.
The courtroom for US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers has been filled with wooden benches, where members of OpenAI and Microsoft, including CEO Sam Altman and general counsel Che Chang, have used thick black cushions to make sitting through hours of proceedings more bearable. Some cushions are higher-end models like those from the brand Purple, which retail around $120, while others are standard throw pillows from Coop, hinting that comfort has become a priority for the legal teams present.
OpenAI President Greg Brockman and his wife Anna, who attend much of the trial, have been noted for their use of immaculate white pillows. A humorous moment occurred when a bodyguard brought a purple handbag containing pillows for them, with Anna discreetly passing a pillow to Brockman while keeping her own.
Interestingly, the use of cushions in the courtroom is not commonly accepted practice, as noted by a seasoned technology lawyer. However, given the trial’s length, cushions seem to be a practical adaptation to the environment—the core litigators do enjoy luxurious leather chairs, albeit a bit worn.
The courtroom, now almost at full capacity with 150 attendees, contrasts sharply with past trials that had more room due to COVID-19 restrictions. A reporter covering the trial, after enduring several uncomfortable days, eventually brought in a thin “cooling” cushion, which proved ineffective. As fatigue set in over the long sessions, some journalists began to embrace the comfort strategy, with at least one New York Times reporter viably opting for a cushion.
As the trial progresses and approaches deliberations on potential penalties, the jury and observers can witness not only the gravity of the case but also the ongoing battle against courtroom discomfort.
