OpenAI, the renowned artificial intelligence research lab, is reportedly in discussions to remove a clause from its agreement with Microsoft that currently restricts the tech giant's access to OpenAI's most advanced models upon achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). This move, reported by the Financial Times, is seen as a strategic effort by OpenAI to unlock billions of dollars in future investments from Microsoft.

The existing clause stipulates that when OpenAI develops AGI—a highly autonomous system capable of outperforming humans in most economically valuable tasks—Microsoft's access to this technology would be void. This provision was initially included to prevent the misuse of AGI for commercial purposes, ensuring that its ownership remains with OpenAI's non-profit board.

However, OpenAI is now exploring the possibility of removing this condition, which would allow Microsoft to continue investing in and accessing all OpenAI technologies even after AGI is achieved. This potential change is part of OpenAI's broader strategy to restructure its core business into a for-profit benefit corporation, moving away from its current governance by a non-profit board.

The discussions are ongoing, and no final decision has been made. Both Microsoft and OpenAI have declined to comment on the specifics of these discussions. However, Bret Taylor, chair of OpenAI's board, emphasized the board's commitment to ensuring that the company is well-positioned to advance its mission of ensuring AGI benefits all of humanity.

This development comes after OpenAI's recent $6.6 billion funding round, which valued the company at $157 billion. The removal of the AGI clause could further enhance OpenAI's attractiveness to investors, particularly Microsoft, which has been a significant backer of the AI company.

As the AI landscape continues to evolve, OpenAI's potential restructuring and the removal of the AGI clause could have significant implications for the future of AI development and investment.