Since the unlikely return of Sam Altman as CEO at OpenAI, the most seasoned individuals claimed that significant changes would occur in the coming days. The following announcement confirms their theory. Indeed, Microsoft will finally join OpenAI’s board of directors as an observer.
It’s an announcement that surprises almost everyone because nothing indicated that such an event could take place. As a result, stakeholders in civil society have many questions about this. One of the most debated is: is it a good idea to have Microsoft sit on the board of directors? If you also want clarification on this matter, read on.
Microsoft Joining OpenAI’s Board of Directors: A Shocking Development?
Earlier in the day, many newspapers reported that Microsoft would not secure a seat on OpenAI’s board of directors. At that moment, all indicators supported this claim, but a few hours later, these factors lost their value. Indeed, Microsoft eventually joined the board as an observer.
While this announcement shocks several industry players, the most informed observers don’t seem to be truly surprised. For them, analyzing recent episodes of the OpenAI-Sam Altman saga was enough to understand that it was far from over. They also assert that certain signs indicated that this decision is the best way to put an end to this crisis.
What Could Be The Possible Reasons Of Collaboration?
For those who are unaware, Microsoft owns 49% of OpenAI. Consequently, this world-class firm has invested nearly $10 billion in the company. Given the recent events at OpenAI, notably the dismissal and return of Sam, it’s understandable that Microsoft would want to protect its interests.
The only way it can do so is by sitting on OpenAI’s board of directors. Indeed, it’s only in this position that its voice could carry more weight in decision-making. Thus, although it’s currently just an observer, it could advocate for a change in the coming months.
Allowing Microsoft To Sit On OpenAI’s Board Of Directors: A Good Or Bad Idea?
Microsoft is a world-class company that has heavily invested in the digital domain and even more so in the development of artificial intelligence. Therefore, this company has a futuristic vision. OpenAI could benefit from its expertise to become indispensable in this field.
This position on the board of directors is a good means of pressure to prevent recent events at OpenAI from recurring. However, for Microsoft’s voice to truly matter, it would need greater decision-making power.
And therein lies the trap. Some observers believe that if this were to happen, this company might hinder OpenAI’s development. According to them, Microsoft would likely prevent the implementation of any programs that are not in its favor. Restricting this company’s decision-making power is a good idea. But for how long?
