OpenAI considers antitrust action against Microsoft over AI hosting control
Microsoft and OpenAI could be headed for a high-stakes AI industry showdown.
OpenAI reportedly tries to reduce Microsoft’s exclusive control over hosting its AI models, signalling growing friction between the two companies.
According to the Wall Street Journal, OpenAI leadership has considered filing an antitrust complaint against Microsoft, alleging anti-competitive behaviour in their ongoing collaboration. The move could trigger federal regulatory scrutiny.
The tension comes amid ongoing talks over OpenAI’s corporate restructuring. A report by The Information suggests that OpenAI is negotiating to grant Microsoft a 33% stake in its reorganized for-profit unit. In exchange, Microsoft would give up rights to future profits.
OpenAI also wants to revise its existing contract with Microsoft, particularly clauses that grant exclusive Azure hosting rights. The company reportedly aims to exclude its planned $3 billion acquisition of AI startup Windsurf from the agreement, which otherwise gives Microsoft access to OpenAI’s intellectual property.
This developing rift could reshape one of the most influential alliances in AI. Microsoft has invested heavily in OpenAI since 2019 and integrates its models into Microsoft 365 Copilot and Azure services. However, both firms are diversifying.
OpenAI is turning to Google Cloud and Oracle for additional computing power, while Microsoft has begun integrating alternative AI models into its products.
Industry experts warn that regulatory scrutiny or contract changes could impact enterprise customers relying on tightly integrated AI solutions, particularly in sectors like healthcare and finance. Companies may face service disruptions, higher costs, or compatibility challenges if major players shift strategy or infrastructure.
Analysts suggest that the era of single-model reliance may be ending. As innovation from rivals like DeepSeek accelerates, enterprises and cloud providers are moving toward multi-model support, aiming for modular, scalable, and use-case-specific AI deployments.
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