OpenAI’s partnership with Microsoft is reportedly under strain due to financial pressures, limited computing resources, and disagreements over project management. According to a recent report from The New York Times, one significant clause in their agreement could sever the relationship: if OpenAI develops artificial general intelligence (AGI), Microsoft may lose access to its technology.
AGI refers to AI that can perform tasks at a level comparable to human intelligence. Interestingly, OpenAI’s board, led by CEO Sam Altman, holds the power to decide when AGI is reached. Altman has previously suggested that the progression to AGI will be gradual and harder to define than anticipated, giving OpenAI substantial control over the timeline.
This clause is designed to ensure Microsoft doesn’t misuse AGI technology, and it could ultimately serve as the escape hatch OpenAI needs if tensions with Microsoft continue to grow.
