Microsoft is in talks with OpenAI on a new agreement that could guarantee it permanent access to critical artificial intelligence technologies. The key point is a review of the terms relating to when OpenAI releases superintelligence. This was reported by Bloomberg on Tuesday, July 29.
Under the current agreement, OpenAI’s achievement of so-called AGI — a hypothetical form of AI that surpasses humans — is a turning point after which Microsoft could lose some of its rights to the startup’s technology. The new terms under discussion would allow Microsoft to continue using OpenAI’s models even after that milestone.
Negotiations are ongoing, and the CEOs of both companies discussed the restructuring earlier this month. The deal could be finalized within a few weeks, although sources caution that it is not yet finalized.
The partnership between the two companies, which effectively ushered in the modern era of AI, has begun to crack. Relations soured after a failed attempt to fire Sam Altman in November 2023, which shook Microsoft’s confidence in its partner.
In addition, the companies have begun to compete more and more for the same corporate and retail customers. OpenAI is seeking to reduce its dependence on Microsoft, in particular by obtaining permission to build data centers with other companies and seeking additional funding.