UK clears Microsoft’s partnership with OpenAI after antitrust probe

Microsoft’s partnership with OpenAI does not need an antitrust investigation, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has said, as the regulator concluded its investigation into the collaboration. It stated that the tech giant does not have the level of control over OpenAI that would warrant further scrutiny.

According to a report by news agency Reuters, the partnership, initiated in 2019 with a $1 billion investment from Microsoft, has faced antitrust concerns in both the UK and the US. Concerns were further fueled by a 2023 boardroom battle at OpenAI that led to the temporary ousting and subsequent return of CEO Sam Altman.