Finance

OpenAI Considers Major Antitrust Action Against Microsoft Amid Partnership Tensions

2025-06-17

Author: Jessica Wong

A Brewing Conflict Between AI Giants

In a bold move that could shake the foundations of the artificial intelligence landscape, OpenAI executives are contemplating filing an antitrust complaint against Microsoft, their principal investor. This development signals a significant escalation in the tensions that have marred their long-term collaboration, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

The Nuclear Option on the Table

Sources reveal that OpenAI is considering a formal request for a federal review of their contracts with Microsoft, alleging possible violations of antitrust laws. Insiders describe this potential complaint as a "nuclear option," suggesting that OpenAI might assert Microsoft is leveraging its dominant position in cloud services to stifle competition.

A Tumultuous Partnership Built on Billions

The partnership between OpenAI and Microsoft, which initially began with a groundbreaking $1 billion investment in 2019, has evolved into a multi-billion dollar collaboration. Microsoft even secured exclusive rights to host OpenAI's models via its Azure cloud platform. However, underlying issues related to the companies' strategic direction are threatening this fraught alliance.

Struggles with Restructuring