In response, Microsoft executives created three plans: to back OpenAI CTO Mira Murati, who was briefly appointed CEO by the board, and push for a reversal of the decision or an explanation; to use its influence as the company's largest investor to reinstate Altman; and finally, to hire Altman and any others who wished to join him to rebuild within Microsoft, which is the course of action they eventually took.
Key takeaways:
- The OpenAI board allegedly excluded Microsoft after voting to remove Sam Altman as CEO, believing that the company would support their decision.
- Microsoft executives were reportedly surprised by the decision to oust Altman, and many in the company found the board's decision "mind-bogglingly stupid".
- The board's decision to remove Altman was reportedly based on a debate over the dangers of AI and the belief that Altman had not been transparent with information.
- Following the ousting of Altman, Microsoft executives created three plans, the third of which they implemented: hiring Altman and anyone else who wanted to join him to rebuild inside Microsoft.