OpenAI Aims to Reduce Reliance on Microsoft

OpenAI is working to reduce its reliance on Microsoft, according to an internal memo from the company’s new revenue chief. The memo states that Microsoft has limited our ability to reach clients and highlights an alliance with Amazon as a key part of OpenAI’s strategy to diversify its partnerships.

This shift comes as both companies move toward greater independence from one another. On February 12, 2026, Microsoft AI chief Mustafa Suleyman stated that Microsoft is targeting true self sufficiency in AI by accelerating the development of its own advanced artificial intelligence models.

Microsoft’s Push for AI Independence

Microsoft is currently constructing its own frontier foundation models to reduce its long-term dependency on OpenAI. Suleyman noted that the company is utilizing gigawatts of computer power and building massive databases to train these algorithms, with new in-house systems expected to emerge in 2026.

To further extend its corporate AI footprint, Microsoft is investing in other AI firms, including Mistral and Anthropic. These moves follow a revision of its collaboration with OpenAI in October 2025.

Financial commitments to AI infrastructure remain a primary focus for Microsoft. The company’s AI infrastructure will account for $140 billion in capital expenditures for the fiscal year ending in June 2026.

Corporate Restructuring and Ownership

The relationship between the two entities was formally altered during a recapitalization process completed on October 28, 2025. OpenAI restructured into a nonprofit, known as the OpenAI Foundation, which holds a controlling equity stake in a for-profit public benefit corporation called OpenAI Group PBC.

Under this structure, the OpenAI Foundation holds a 26% stake in the for-profit arm, while current and former employees and investors hold 47%.

Microsoft holds roughly 27% of OpenAI Group PBC on an as-converted diluted basis. This investment is valued at $135 billion, following a total investment of more than $13 billion since 2019.

Intellectual Property and Future Constraints

Despite the move toward independence, certain legal and technical links remain. Microsoft retains intellectual property rights through 2032, which includes systems developed after the achievement of artificial general intelligence (AGI).

As part of the restructured agreement, OpenAI has been granted flexibility to select new infrastructure partners and investors. This flexibility is reflected in the current efforts to leverage an alliance with Amazon to expand its client reach.

Microsoft’s Copilot assistant continues to use OpenAI models, even as the company develops its internal alternatives to gain tighter control over its AI stack, including models, infrastructure, and products.

Market and Investor Impact

The scale of Microsoft’s AI spending has led to investor concerns regarding valuation and potential investment excess. In the month preceding February 12, 2026, Microsoft shares declined by 13%.

Mustafa Suleyman indicated that the company intends to capture more enterprise demand by deploying powerful AI systems capable of automating professional roles while maintaining human control over autonomous tools.

Investors are expected to monitor future financial reports and product launches for evidence that these substantial AI investments are resulting in increased sales and improved margins.