The unfolding saga between OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and the company’s board has taken a new twist, with reports suggesting a deliberate exclusion of Microsoft from the decision-making process. According to The New Yorker, OpenAI’s old board intentionally left Microsoft out of the loop after voting to remove Altman as CEO. The move was orchestrated to catch Altman off guard and prevent Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella from warning Altman about the impending decision.

While Altman’s dismissal was initially framed around disagreements regarding the risks of AI and alleged lack of transparency, the board believed Microsoft would support their decision. Microsoft, having established a responsible AI division and expressing concerns about the potential dangers of AI, seemed aligned with OpenAI’s stance. However, the company swiftly integrated OpenAI’s GPT technology into its products, indicating a keen interest in bringing AI into everyday applications.

The New Yorker’s report suggests that many within Microsoft found the OpenAI board’s decision to be “mind-bogglingly stupid.” Microsoft responded with three plans: backing OpenAI CTO Mira Murati, who briefly took on the role of chief executive; leveraging its influence as the largest investor to reinstate Altman; and ultimately opting for the third plan – hiring Altman and any others willing to join him to rebuild within Microsoft.

This revelation adds a layer of intrigue to the ongoing narrative, shedding light on the calculated moves made by OpenAI’s board and the unexpected repercussions of their decision on the company’s relationship with Microsoft. The evolving dynamics between major players in the AI space continue to be a subject of keen observation.