Apple is actively negotiating a potential investment in OpenAI, the AI startup behind the groundbreaking ChatGPT, according to a Wall Street Journal report. This move marks a significant step in Apple's strategic shift towards integrating more advanced AI technologies within its ecosystem.
The investment discussions are part of OpenAI's latest fundraising efforts, led by Thrive Capital, which seeks to value OpenAI at an impressive $100 billion. This funding round is notable not only for its size but also for the participation of industry giants like Microsoft, which has previously invested a substantial $13 billion and currently enjoys a 49% share in OpenAI’s profits.
The exact investment figures for Apple and Microsoft in this round are yet to be disclosed. Apple’s interest in OpenAI is particularly intriguing, given the company's traditional investment strategy that typically focuses on manufacturing partnerships rather than startup equity.
This move could signify a broader strategy to more deeply embed AI functionalities across Apple’s product lines, from Macs to iPhones, leveraging OpenAI’s cutting-edge technologies.
The developments are expected to be a key focus at Apple’s upcoming “Glowtime” event on September 9th, where the company is poised to showcase expanded capabilities under its new “Apple Intelligence” initiative.
These features, currently available in beta, are slated for significant expansion in the coming months, heralding a new era of AI-driven innovation at Apple.
