- A reliable source informed CNBC that Microsoft is making arrangements for OpenAI employees who are considering transitioning to Microsoft, including providing Mac laptops, office space, and recruitment support.
- This initiative follows Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s positive outlook on the potential integration of Sam Altman and his team, who recently departed from OpenAI, into Microsoft’s workforce.
The future of OpenAI remains uncertain, but Microsoft is extending a welcoming hand to the startup’s staff members, assuring them of a supportive environment.
Microsoft’s LinkedIn offices in downtown San Francisco, located in close proximity to OpenAI’s headquarters, are gearing up to accommodate a significant number of new employees.
In addition to investing billions in OpenAI, Microsoft is reportedly facilitating the recruitment and onboarding process, along with provisioning workspaces and Apple MacBook devices. Forbes initially reported on Microsoft’s storage preparations.
Over 90% of OpenAI employees signed a collective letter urging either a visit from their former leader, Sam Altman, to Microsoft or the resignation of the current board. As per Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s announcement on Monday morning, Altman, Greg Brockman, and their team are expected to join Microsoft’s new artificial intelligence research group.
However, the actual transition of Altman and Brockman to Microsoft remained uncertain as of Monday night.
More updates on OpenAI can be found on CNBC.
During an interview with CNBC’s Jon Fortt on Monday, Nadella emphasized that the decision to stay at OpenAI or move to Microsoft rests with the OpenAI employees. He reassured that Microsoft is well-equipped to continue its innovation journey independently, offering support for either choice.
According to a Bloomberg report on Tuesday, Altman is reportedly in talks with the OpenAI board regarding a potential return to the organization.
Microsoft’s preparations acknowledge the concerns raised by the numerous OpenAI employees who endorsed the collective letter.
In a Tuesday post on X (formerly Twitter), Microsoft’s Chief Technology Officer Kevin Scott expressed willingness to match the current pay of OpenAI employees contemplating a departure following Altman’s unexpected exit.
