OpenAI and Microsoft amend partnership terms amid AI surge

OpenAI will continue to share revenue with Microsoft until 2030 under the existing terms, although the total amount will be capped

by e4m Staff
Published: Apr 28, 2026 8:40 AM | 1 min read

OpenAI and Microsoft have revised their partnership agreement to enhance flexibility amid growing demand for artificial intelligence.
Microsoft will continue as OpenAI's primary cloud partner, with OpenAI products launching first on Microsoft Azure, but OpenAI can now offer its products on other cloud platforms.
The updated agreement includes changes to intellectual property and commercial terms, with Microsoft retaining access to OpenAI's models through 2032 under a non-exclusive license and eliminating revenue sharing payments to OpenAI.
Both companies will maintain a focus on expanding data center capacity, developing next-generation chips, and advancing cybersecurity to broaden AI accessibility globally.

OpenAI and Microsoft have announced an updated agreement to simplify their partnership and give both companies more flexibility as demand for artificial intelligence continues to grow.

Under the revised terms, Microsoft will remain OpenAI’s main cloud partner, with OpenAI products still launching first on Microsoft Azure. OpenAI will also be able to make its products available on other cloud platforms, allowing it more flexibility in how it operates.

The agreement also changes the intellectual property and commercial terms between the two companies. Microsoft will continue to have access to OpenAI’s models and products through 2032, but the licence will now be non-exclusive. Microsoft will also no longer pay a revenue share to OpenAI.

At the same time, OpenAI will continue to share revenue with Microsoft until 2030 under the existing terms, although the total amount will be capped. Microsoft will remain a significant shareholder in OpenAI.

The partnership will continue to focus on expanding data centre capacity, developing next-generation chips, and advancing areas such as cybersecurity, as both companies work to bring AI to more users and organisations worldwide.