Microsoft is reportedly prepared to halt ongoing negotiations with OpenAI over the future of their partnership, according to the Financial Times, as disagreements persist on key issues — particularly the size of Microsoft’s future equity stake in the AI firm.
Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report states that Microsoft could choose to rely solely on its current commercial contract, which secures access to OpenAI’s technology until 2030, instead of pursuing a new investment agreement.
The tension follows a Wall Street Journal report earlier this week suggesting that OpenAI executives have considered accusing Microsoft of anticompetitive behavior. Both companies are said to be reviewing terms of Microsoft’s existing multi-billion dollar investment.
Despite the friction, Microsoft and OpenAI jointly stated that “talks are ongoing” and expressed optimism about continued collaboration.
Microsoft’s deep financial backing has been central to OpenAI’s rise and to Microsoft’s own positioning as a global AI leader. However, OpenAI’s efforts to restructure as a public-benefit corporation — a move it hopes will ease future fundraising — require Microsoft’s approval, adding further complexity to the discussions.
