Microsoft has stepped back from its observer position on the OpenAI board, a move that signals a shift in the companies’ relationship amid growing regulatory scrutiny. This decision comes after antitrust concerns were raised by regulators in the U.S., Europe, and the UK, who expressed worries about Microsoft’s significant influence over OpenAI.
The tech giant cited OpenAI’s improved governance and independent direction as the reason for withdrawing its observer role. Microsoft also emphasized its expansion into its own AI offerings, hinting at a desire to diversify beyond the OpenAI partnership.
While Microsoft is stepping back from the board, the company remains a major investor in OpenAI, having poured over $10 billion into the company. OpenAI has pledged to maintain transparency by engaging in regular meetings with stakeholders, including strategic partners like Microsoft and Apple, and investors.
This move comes as a significant development in the ongoing debate about the regulation of artificial intelligence, particularly with regards to the influence of large technology companies.