The article also highlights Microsoft's significant role in OpenAI, as a major investor and exclusive provider of its cloud services. This was particularly evident when Microsoft intervened in a conflict resulting from the firing of OpenAI's co-founder, Sam Altman, in November 2023. The resolution saw Altman reappointed as CEO, the return of fellow co-founder Greg Brockman, and Microsoft gaining a seat as a "non-voting observer" on the revised board.
Key takeaways:
- The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has begun gathering information about the Microsoft-OpenAI partnership to assess if it can be considered a merger and its potential impact on competition.
- The CMA's investigation process starts with reviewing comments from various stakeholders before a formal investigation.
- Microsoft has had a significant influence on OpenAI, including substantial investments, technology development, and involvement in the governance structure.
- During a conflict within OpenAI, there were discussions of co-founders Sam Altman and Greg Brockman joining Microsoft, leading to a reshuffling of the board and reappointment of Altman as CEO.