Microsoft Negotiates to Secure Ongoing Access to OpenAI Technologies Post-AGI Milestone

Microsoft is in discussions with OpenAI regarding a new agreement that would grant the tech giant ongoing access to the company’s technologies even after OpenAI reaches what it defines as AGI. If this deal goes through, it would represent a significant milestone for OpenAI in its path towards commercialization.

According to Bloomberg, citing three anonymous sources, the companies are in negotiations and could finalize an agreement within weeks. Some sources indicate that while there are positive developments, potential obstacles could arise, including regulatory scrutiny and Elon Musk’s lawsuit aimed at blocking OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model.

OpenAI is structured as a nonprofit organization focused on a specific mission, while also overseeing a for-profit entity with limited earnings potential. This arrangement is intended to restrict commercialization and fundraising options. Despite these limitations, OpenAI has raised billions and operates like a standard tech company, but it is keen to remove these constraints.

As the largest investor in OpenAI, having invested $13.75 billion and acquired rights to part of the intellectual property of the ChatGPT creator, Microsoft has created substantial challenges for OpenAI’s future as a commercial entity. The negotiations have been ongoing for months.

Microsoft aims to increase its stake in the restructured entity and secure access to OpenAI’s technology. The current agreement is effective until 2030 or until OpenAI announces the achievement of AGI, though the specific definition of AGI remains unclear.

Microsoft has built the Azure OpenAI service, leveraging the work of the smaller company. The startup’s technologies have been integrated into applications like Copilot for Windows, Office, and GitHub. Should OpenAI suddenly declare the attainment of AGI and cut off access, Microsoft would risk losing a significant strategic advantage. Reports suggest that OpenAI has also informed its investors that it anticipates paying Microsoft a lower percentage of its revenue as it grows.

According to Bloomberg, OpenAI is working to ensure the safe implementation of its technology by Microsoft, especially in light of AGI development.

Additionally, Microsoft stands to benefit from OpenAI becoming a commercial entity. The current structure limits investor returns, so a more conventional arrangement would enable Microsoft to acquire an official equity stake and enjoy substantial profits, while continuing to utilize OpenAI’s technology.

Bloomberg reports that the two companies are negotiating Microsoft’s shareholdings, ranging from 3% to 30%.

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For the original news source, click [here](https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/29/microsoft-in-talks-to-maintain-access-to-openais-tech-beyond-agi-milestone/).