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ForbesMay 25
Microsoft Quits OpenAI Board
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The Facts
Microsoft confirmed in a letter on Tuesday its immediate resignation from the observer role on the board of OpenAI, arguing that its participation was no longer needed after the artificial intelligence company allegedly improved its governance.
The tech giant, which has invested $13B in the ChatGPT maker, had a non-voting board seat in OpenAI for the past eight months, as part of a complete board overhaul following Sam Altman's ousting and return last fall.
The Spin
Narrative A
Once seen as potential competitive players, leading AI startups — including OpenAI — have become dependent on tech giants to cover costs and train its algorithms. This withdrawal comes as a direct consequence of the regulatory crackdown on the sway big tech holds over the still-nascent AI industry to promote fair competition.
Narrative B
Microsoft — and Apple too, according to reports — has indeed quit its non-voting role on OpenAI's board to ease concerns of antitrust regulators, but its withdrawal doesn't mean that the tech giant will no longer have any influence over OpenAI. Their partnership will continue under a new approach, as regular stakeholder meetings will be held.