An OpenAI Model 'Disproved' a Famous Math Conjecture. This Mathematician Couldn't Leave It Alone

An OpenAI model disproved the long-standing belief that optimal solutions to the planar unit distance problem resemble square grids. The AI-generated proof, analyzed by mathematician Will Sawin and nine prominent peers, revealed a more complex structure. The result, published by OpenAI, challenges decades of mathematical intuition. Fields medalist Tim Gowers called it a milestone in AI mathematics. This breakthrough is one of dozens of AI-derived solutions to longstanding math problems. The finding suggests AI could accelerate progress on unsolved mathematical riddles.