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OpenAI Opts for Apple's macOS for ChatGPT, Overlooking Windows Despite Microsoft's Hefty Investment

Published May 15, 2024

In a notable turn of events, OpenAI has bypassed its major financier, the technology giant Microsoft Corporation MSFT, in favor of its industry rival, Apple Inc. AAPL. The AI research lab has chosen to roll out its celebrated ChatGPT application on macOS, which comes ahead of a similar release for Microsoft's Windows 11 platform. This move was announced in conjunction with the unveiling of OpenAI's advanced GPT-4o AI model.

OpenAI's Strategic Deployment on macOS

Even after receiving a staggering $13 billion in funding from Microsoft, OpenAI has made a decision that seemingly snubs its top investor by dispatching the ChatGPT application on Apple's platform first. Mira Murati, the Chief Technology Officer of OpenAI, spearheaded the announcement during a major event, signaling a strategic direction that caters to Apple's ecosystem before Windows.

The Significance for Microsoft and Apple

For Microsoft, this development might come as a surprise considering its substantial investment and the natural expectation to be the primary platform for OpenAI's offerings. The world knows Microsoft for its vast portfolio, including the ubiquitous Microsoft Windows operating systems, the Office suite, and various consumer electronics. The company has been a dominant force in the software industry and is counted among the Big Five of US tech giants, which makes OpenAI's decision even more striking.

On the flip side, Apple's receipt of the ChatGPT app is emblematic of its leading status in the tech space. With an unrivaled revenue figure of $274.5 billion in 2020 and a reputation as the most valuable company globally, Apple continues to be a top player in consumer electronics and software. Its entry into the arena of advanced AI applications through OpenAI's ChatGPT further consolidates its position.

OpenAI, Microsoft, Apple, ChatGPT, investment, technology, software, AI