In a surprising turn of events, OpenAI announced on Wednesday morning that Sam Altman would be returning as CEO after a sudden firing on Friday. The weekend witnessed a series of twists, initially hinting at Altman and OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman potentially joining Microsoft to lead a new AI research lab. However, negotiations took an unexpected turn, resulting in the appointment of a new board of directors at OpenAI and Altman’s reinstatement as CEO.
The tumultuous weekend saw OpenAI employees contemplating a mass exodus to Microsoft, prompting a response from Microsoft CTO and EVP of AI, Kevin Scott. In a memo obtained by The Verge and posted to Microsoft’s internal employee forum, Scott addressed the situation, emphasizing Microsoft’s commitment to delivering top-notch AI technology platforms and products. The memo highlighted the undeterred focus of both Microsoft and OpenAI scientists and engineers, citing recent achievements despite the turbulent circumstances.
As outlined in the internal memo, the newly appointed board at OpenAI, comprising Sam Altman and Greg Brockman, has solidified the company’s leadership. Microsoft expressed unwavering support for OpenAI, acknowledging the uncertainty of the past few days. The memo highlighted the continued urgency and commitment of both Microsoft and OpenAI teams in advancing AI technologies. Despite the potential distractions, achievements such as the deployment of new AI compute on Azure, cutting-edge research publication by MSR AI Frontiers, and ongoing product development at OpenAI showcased the dedication of the teams.
Kevin Scott expressed gratitude on behalf of the senior leadership team, acknowledging the exceptional efforts made by individuals during the challenging period. The memo served as a reassurance that Microsoft’s collaboration with OpenAI would persist, emphasizing the collective commitment to delivering impactful AI solutions.
Following Scott’s memo, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella also addressed employees, extending Thanksgiving gratitude and recognizing their remarkable contributions. Nadella emphasized that technology, including AI, is a tool—a means to an end. He underscored the importance of Microsoft’s mission to empower people and organizations worldwide, lauding the company’s focus on mission-driven work.
Nadella’s message touched on the privilege of working with a team dedicated to a shared mission, especially evident during the recent challenges. He expressed deep gratitude for the daily efforts of Microsoft employees, highlighting the positive impact they make globally. The message ended with well-wishes for Thanksgiving and a reflection on the collective commitment to Microsoft’s mission.
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Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella responded to the developments, expressing encouragement for the changes in the OpenAI board. Nadella emphasized the importance of these changes as a crucial step towards achieving more stable and effective governance. He highlighted discussions with Sam Altman and Greg Brockman, acknowledging their key roles in ensuring the continued success and growth of OpenAI.
The collaborative spirit between OpenAI and Microsoft is underscored, with both entities looking forward to building on their strong partnership.
Nadella, in a message posted on November 19, reiterated Microsoft’s unwavering commitment to its partnership with OpenAI. He expressed confidence in the product roadmap and the ability to innovate, referencing over 100 announcements made at Microsoft Ignite. The long-term agreement with OpenAI ensures full access to resources necessary for delivering on Microsoft’s innovation agenda. The focus remains on providing meaningful benefits of AI technology to customers while building for the future.
In a post on November 17, Nadella shared the exciting news of Sam Altman and Greg Brockman, along with colleagues, joining Microsoft to lead a new advanced AI research team. The announcement reflects Microsoft’s eagerness to support Altman and Brockman in their new venture, providing the resources needed for success. The collaboration between OpenAI and Microsoft continues to evolve, with a shared commitment to advancing AI capabilities and delivering value to customers and partners.
Sam Altman
I love openai, and everything i’ve done over the past few days has been in service of keeping this team and its mission together. when i decided to join msft on sun evening, it was clear that was the best path for me and the team. with the new board and w satya’s support, i’m looking forward to returning to openai, and building on our strong partnership with msft.
Satya Nadella
We are encouraged by the changes to the OpenAI board. We believe this is a first essential step on a path to more stable, well-informed, and effective governance. Sam, Greg, and I have talked and agreed they have a key role to play along with the OAI leadership team in ensuring OAI continues to thrive and build on its mission. We look forward to building on our strong partnership and delivering the value of this next generation of AI to our customers and partners.
The internal communications from Microsoft’s leadership shed light on the resilience of both companies amid the leadership shake-up at OpenAI. The commitment to AI advancements and the acknowledgment of the dedicated teams involved reflect a collective determination to navigate uncertainties and stay true to the mission of empowering individuals and organizations through technology. The unfolding events, while initially marked by chaos, seem to be settling, leaving the focus on the continued collaboration between Microsoft and OpenAI in the realm of AI innovation.