OpenAI rebrands data centers as 'compute campuses' amid growing opposition

OpenAI has begun using the term 'compute campuses' instead of 'data centers' in its public communications. The shift appears aimed at easing political backlash against facilities that many residents see as loud, resource-intensive, and unsightly. The new terminology was introduced in an announcement of a 'Grid Protectors Program', beginning with a planned site in Effingham County, Georgia. Critics note that data centers face bipartisan opposition, and the rebranding is seen as an attempt to ease resistance to the infrastructure supporting the AI boom.