Current Tensions

Main Points of Conflict:

• Control rights: Microsoft wants greater say in OpenAI’s strategic decisions
• Exclusivity rights: Dispute over using AI models on other platforms
• Profit sharing: Disagreements about revenue distribution

Financial Times Report

The Financial Times reported on June 19, 2025, that Microsoft is “prepared to abandon high-stakes negotiations” with OpenAI, potentially signaling significant changes in the tech industry’s largest AI partnership.

Potential Consequences

From Microsoft’s perspective:

• Intensifying own AI development
• Seeking new partners (Anthropic, Cohere)
• Diversifying Azure AI services

From OpenAI’s perspective:

• Seeking new funding sources
• Increasing technological independence
• New cloud partners (Google Cloud, AWS)

Industry Analysts’ Opinion

Dan Ives, analyst at Wedbush Securities, stated: “This breakup is risky for both parties, but could result in healthier competition in the AI market long-term.”

Sam Altman’s Response

The OpenAI CEO diplomatically stated: “Microsoft remains a valuable partner, but preserving OpenAI’s independence is crucial to fulfilling our mission.”

Sources: Financial Times, The Information, Wall Street Journal