Microsoft has decided to relinquish its observer seat on OpenAI's board, citing significant progress over the past eight months and confidence in its direction. This move comes after the company's involvement in ensuring the return of Sam Altman as CEO and restructuring the board.
Microsoft initially sought the observer role following the ouster of Sam Altman in November. The tech giant played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in reinstating Altman and overhauling OpenAI's governance structure.
In a letter to OpenAI, Microsoft confirmed its immediate resignation from the observer role. The company expressed gratitude for the support from OpenAI leadership and the board. Microsoft acknowledged that the observer role provided valuable insights without compromising board independence. However, the role is now deemed optional, given that progress has been made.
After Altman's return as CEO, OpenAI's board was reconstituted, retaining only Adam D'Angelo from the previous board. New members included Bret Taylor as chairman and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. Altman was later re-added to the board, with former NSA official Paul Nakasone joining most recently.
Last week, Bloomberg reported that OpenAI planned to offer Apple executive Phil Schiller an observer seat. However, following Microsoft's departure, OpenAI no longer intends to have observers on its board. This decision alleviates antitrust concerns regarding Microsoft's significant involvement with OpenAI.
Statements:
"We're grateful to Microsoft for voicing confidence in the Board and the direction of the company, and we look forward to continuing our successful partnership," OpenAI said in a statement to Axios. OpenAI also mentioned a new strategy to inform and engage key partners and investors, including Microsoft and Apple.