Microsoft(US:MSFT) 36氪·2025-06-19 09:10Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving relationship between OpenAI and Microsoft, highlighting their shift from collaboration to competition, particularly after OpenAI's recent partnership with Google Cloud for AI model training and operation [3][4][12]. Group 1: Partnership Dynamics - OpenAI and Google Cloud's partnership was officially established in May 2023, providing OpenAI with new computing power for AI model training [4]. - The collaboration signifies a formal split between OpenAI and Microsoft, which had been deteriorating for over six months due to disagreements [5][12]. - OpenAI's valuation has reached $300 billion, while Microsoft's market capitalization has surged to $3.5 trillion, indicating both companies' significant growth in the AI sector [7]. Group 2: Underlying Tensions - The tensions between OpenAI and Microsoft were foreshadowed by events such as Sam Altman's removal as CEO of OpenAI in November 2023, and Microsoft's CEO Satya Nadella's ambiguous statements regarding OpenAI's future [6]. - Disputes over intellectual property rights have been a critical factor in the deteriorating relationship, with OpenAI reluctant to share key model information with Microsoft [9][10]. - Following a series of conflicts, Microsoft began to tighten its investment and resource supply to OpenAI, while OpenAI sought alternative partnerships, such as with Oracle [10][12]. Group 3: Structural Changes at OpenAI - OpenAI announced plans to transition to a profit-oriented structure by 2025 but later decided to maintain control under a non-profit parent company while creating a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) [14][15]. - The restructuring aims to eliminate profit caps and allow for a traditional capital structure, enabling direct equity ownership for employees and investors [15]. - Negotiations with Microsoft regarding equity stakes and revenue sharing have been complex, with OpenAI aiming to reduce Microsoft's share while ensuring its support for the restructuring [18][20]. Group 4: Future Implications - The ongoing negotiations indicate a shift in Microsoft's strategy from ownership to operational leverage, allowing it to maintain access to OpenAI's technology without the complexities of governance [21]. - The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, with indications that OpenAI executives have considered legal action against Microsoft for monopolistic practices [22][23].