BREAKING: Sam Altman Returns to OpenAI, What About Microsoft Now?

It’s been a week of drama and turn of events unfolding at OpenAI and the recent development is that Sam Altman shall be returning as the CEO of OpenAI, back again. The development comes days after Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said that Altman will be leading the AI research team at his company.

Sam Altman Returns to OpenAI

OpenAI has revealed that there is an agreement in principle for the return of Sam Altman as CEO. The accompanying news includes the formation of a new initial board featuring Bret Taylor as Chair, along with Larry Summers and Adam D’Angelo.

Collaborative efforts are underway to finalize the specifics of this arrangement. OpenAI expressed gratitude for the patience extended by stakeholders during this process. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella had also stated that he’s open to Sam Altman joining OpenAI again, after his last week’s ouster.

We have reached an agreement in principle for Sam Altman to return to OpenAI as CEO with a new initial board of Bret Taylor (Chair), Larry Summers, and Adam D'Angelo.

We are collaborating to figure out the details. Thank you so much for your patience through this.

— OpenAI (@OpenAI) November 22, 2023

Reciprocating on this announcement, Sam Altman affirmed his love for the organization. Altman clarified that all recent actions were geared towards preserving the team and its mission. Upon deciding to join Microsoft on Sunday evening, Altman emphasized that it was deemed the best path for both himself and the team.

Altman expressed enthusiasm about returning to OpenAI, particularly with the newly formed board and the support of Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s CEO. He looks forward to building upon the strong partnership between OpenAI and Microsoft. Sam Altman’s close ally Greg Brockman also confirmed his return to OpenAI, after calling it quits last week.

Returning to OpenAI & getting back to coding tonight.

— Greg Brockman (@gdb) November 22, 2023

Microsoft Discusses Governance Changes With OpenAI

With its staggering $13 billion investment in OpenAI, Microsoft is now discussing some governance changes, it plans to seek from the OpenAI board.

Microsoft is in discussions regarding potential governance changes in OpenAI, seeking to enhance the board’s effectiveness and ensure better alignment with the software giant, which is OpenAI’s primary investor.

The proposed changes may involve increasing the board’s size and elevating the experience threshold for its members. Sources familiar with Microsoft’s considerations, requesting anonymity, revealed that the company aims to fortify its position and decision-making influence in significant strategic maneuvers. Here’s what Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella had to say about the current development.

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… https://t.co/djO6Fuz6t9

— Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) November 22, 2023

The move follows recent developments where Microsoft’s approval was not sought for OpenAI’s merger talks with Anthropic, prompting a review of existing protective measures.

Amid all the boardroom drama around Sam Altman’s ouster, OpenAI has asked its workers to focus on work. OpenAI is redirecting its focus towards product development and partnerships, seeking to minimize distractions arising from leadership uncertainties.

In a message addressed to OpenAI employees on Tuesday, Peter Deng, the Vice President of Product, communicated the decision to channel the company’s energy into developing innovative products. This strategic shift aims to foster a more productive environment and minimize disruptions caused by ongoing leadership discussions, particularly concerning Sam Altman.