Microsoft Caps AI Payments Through 2030, Eyes SoftBank’s 10-GW Data Center
Microsoft and OpenAI agreed to cap revenue share payments through 2030 and allow sales on any cloud provider. Microsoft remains OpenAI’s primary cloud partner with an IP license through 2032 and is evaluating leases at SoftBank’s 10-gigawatt, $500 billion Ohio data center.
1. Revamped OpenAI Payment Deal
Microsoft and OpenAI agreed to cap revenue share payments at predefined levels through 2030 and lift exclusivity restrictions to permit OpenAI to sell its AI models on any cloud platform, aiming to simplify collaboration and increase flexibility.
2. Continued Cloud Partnership and IP License
Under the amended agreement, Microsoft retains its status as OpenAI’s primary cloud provider and secures a license to OpenAI’s intellectual property through 2032 to support ongoing integration of AI services.
3. SoftBank Ohio Data Center Opportunity
Microsoft is evaluating leasing capacity at SoftBank’s planned Ohio data center, a 10-gigawatt facility with a projected $500 billion investment, to meet growing AI compute demand alongside other major tech companies.