Microsoft Withdraws Observer from OpenAI Board Amid Antitrust Concerns

Microsoft has withdrawn its representative from the observer seat on OpenAI’s board of directors, according to Bloomberg, citing sources.

The company, which invested $13 billion in the creator of ChatGPT, sent a letter to the AI startup announcing its departure from the board.

“Over the past eight months, we have witnessed significant progress from the newly formed board and are confident in the company’s direction. We no longer believe our limited observer role is necessary,” the letter, seen by the media, states.

It was anticipated that Apple would take a similar position. However, according to an OpenAI representative, the startup will not have observers on its board after Microsoft’s departure. Cupertino’s involvement was agreed upon as part of a deal to integrate ChatGPT into Siri, iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.

“We are grateful to Microsoft for expressing confidence in the board and the company’s direction, and we look forward to continuing our successful partnership,” OpenAI representatives commented to Bloomberg.

Microsoft took the non-voting board seat at the AI firm following the events surrounding Sam Altman’s departure as CEO.

Back in November last year, Altman was dismissed from his position as head of the company. At that time, OpenAI employees drafted a collective letter to the board demanding their resignation and the reinstatement of the former CEO.

Major investors also demanded Altman’s reinstatement as CEO. Less than a week later, he returned to his position.