Microsoft is said to be concerned about the server load if the Apple-OpenAI deal goes through, and future competition from Apple's AI features. (Image source: OpenAI)
The rumoured deal between Apple and OpenAI has caused some concerns for a major OpenAI investor, Microsoft.
The Information released a report detailing the upcoming collaboration between Apple and OpenAI, and how it worries Microsoft.
The report claims Apple employees have access to OpenAI APIs for internal testing. During these internal tests, Apple employees used the APIs to make Siri "more responsive, natural, and even provide real-time translation". As a result, Apple is said to be focused on using OpenAI technologies to enhance Siri's ability to tackle more complex queries and change the digital voice assistant into a chatbot.
Apple is expected to preview iOS 18's generative AI features at WWDC 2024 next month, some of which are likely going to be powered by OpenAI. These could include voice memo transcription, improved Safari web search, and suggested replies to emails and text messages.
If the deal pulls through, Microsoft has plenty to worry about. Its Bing search engine, Edge, Office apps, and Windows OS all integrate some of OpenAI's models. Microsoft also provides its Azure cloud servers for OpenAI, which could struggle with the heavy workload demand whenever Apple rolls out new AI features.
Since Apple's AI work could compete directly with Microsoft's, this might strain Microsoft's multi-year, multi-billion partnership with OpenAI. The Information report states that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently discussed these concerns with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, but no detail of their discussion was revealed.
Source: The Information via 9to5Mac
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