Microsoft and Apple Relinquish Non-Voting OpenAI Board Seats Amid Regulatory Scrutiny

Jul 10, 2024, 08:54 AM

Microsoft has relinquished its non-voting observer seat on OpenAI's board amid growing regulatory scrutiny from antitrust regulators in the U.S. and Europe. The decision comes as OpenAI's governance has improved significantly over the past eight months, making the seat unnecessary according to Microsoft. Deputy General Counsel Keith Dolliver stated that the move maintains board independence. Apple, which was expected to take a similar observer role, has also decided not to join the board. This move underscores the increasing regulatory pressure on Big Tech companies regarding their influence over artificial intelligence partnerships and investments. OpenAI has stated it will host regular meetings with investors and partners like Microsoft and Apple instead of having board observers.