OpenAI’s rebranding comes as public opposition to AI data centers grows|ishmael daro|CC BY 2.0

ChatGPT maker OpenAI plans to give AI data centers a new name: “compute campuses.” The company says the term better reflects the scale and purpose of the massive facilities that power its AI services.

An OpenAI spokesperson said these campuses involve long-term investments in computing, energy infrastructure, and skilled jobs.

In a blog post outlining its new approach to responsible AI infrastructure, the company also proposed a framework to give local communities more input into development.

The wording shift appears designed to improve the public image of the sprawling facilities.

The rebranding comes as public opposition to AI data centers grows. A recent Pew Research poll found that 54% of Americans believe these facilities harm the environment.

It has also become an important issue for voters, with many rejecting ballot measures supporting data center expansions.

While companies such as Meta, Amazon, and Microsoft have pledged millions of dollars to support communities near their facilities, OpenAI hopes its new terminology will improve public perception.

However, it remains unclear whether the new name will catch on.