Microsoft and OpenAI are close to signing a new agreement. This deal could give Microsoft ongoing access to OpenAI’s artificial intelligence technologies, including the potential future development of artificial general intelligence (AGI). If finalized, this agreement would mark a major step in OpenAI’s transition toward broader commercial operations.
According to Bloomberg, talks are still ongoing, and the agreement is expected to be reached within the coming weeks. However, there are potential obstacles that could delay the process, such as regulatory scrutiny and a lawsuit filed by Elon Musk opposing OpenAI’s commercialization.
Currently, OpenAI operates as a nonprofit organization, which limits its ability to fully monetize its technologies. However, OpenAI aims to remove these restrictions and operate more freely.
Microsoft is OpenAI’s largest investor, having invested $13.75 billion and secured access to some of OpenAI’s technologies and patents. The current agreement runs until 2030 or until OpenAI declares that it has achieved AGI. However, there is no clear consensus on when or how AGI will be realized.
Microsoft’s main goal is to secure long-term access to OpenAI’s technologies and to increase its ownership stake in the company. At present, OpenAI’s technologies are integrated into Microsoft products such as Copilot, Office, Windows, and GitHub. If OpenAI suddenly announces that it has achieved AGI and restricts access, it could be a significant strategic loss for Microsoft.
OpenAI plans to assure Microsoft that it will use the technologies safely and responsibly, especially as it approaches AGI development.
At the same time, OpenAI’s full transition to a commercial model could also benefit Microsoft. The current structure limits investor returns, but a new structure would provide Microsoft with formal equity, higher returns, and greater influence.
Bloomberg reports that discussions include Microsoft potentially acquiring a 30 to 35 percent stake in OpenAI.
