OpenAI and Microsoft end exclusive partnership, opening door to multi-cloud AI deployment

Microsoft's license to OpenAI IP is no longer exclusive as of April 27, 2026, allowing OpenAI to serve its products across any cloud provider including Amazon Web Rock and Google Cloud. Microsoft remains OpenAI's 'primary cloud partner' with Azure-first shipping unless Microsoft declines a request. The amended agreement drops the AGI-related contract clause entirely, which previously threatened Microsoft's access to OpenAI technology once AGI benchmarks were met. Microsoft retains its IP license through 2032 (now non-exclusive) and its approximately 27% ownership stake in OpenAI, valued at $135 billion. The revenue share structure has been capped through 2030, and Microsoft no longer pays OpenAI a revenue share. This restructuring reshapes the competitive AI landscape, allowing OpenAI models on AWS Bedrock and Google Cloud through standard enterprise procurement channels.