Microsoft and OpenAI have announced changes in their collaboration that allow OpenAI to use computing power from other companies. Microsoft has received the right of first refusal for OpenAI’s new computing resources, but if it cannot meet OpenAI’s needs, the latter may turn to other providers.
OpenAI had previously reported insufficient computing power, which delayed the launch of its products. In June, Microsoft allowed OpenAI to make a deal with Oracle for additional capacity. Despite the changes, the key elements of the partnership between Microsoft and OpenAI remain in effect until 2030, including Microsoft’s access to OpenAI’s intellectual property, revenue-sharing agreements, and the exclusivity of OpenAI’s API for Azure.
OpenAI and SoftBank have also announced the creation of a joint venture with Arm, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Oracle to build a data center system in the US called Starbase. This requires billions of dollars in computing power, which OpenAI plans to use to develop its models and serve users. It is noted that some OpenAI shareholders have expressed dissatisfaction with the insufficient speed of Microsoft’s computing power supply.
