Apple Inc. Expected to Obtain OpenAI Board Observer Seat

2024-07-03

According to the latest report from Bloomberg, Apple has selected Phil Schiller, a key figure in the App Store and former marketing department, to join OpenAI's non-profit board of directors. However, Schiller will participate as an observer, which means he can attend board meetings but does not have voting rights or the status of a formal director. This move undoubtedly provides Schiller with a window into the internal operations of OpenAI, as Apple is actively preparing to integrate ChatGPT technology into its iOS and macOS operating systems. Once integrated, with user authorization, Siri will leverage the power of AI to delegate more complex queries to ChatGPT, thereby enhancing the user experience. It is worth noting that Bloomberg previously revealed that this collaboration currently does not involve financial transactions, but Apple expects to benefit from the subscription revenue generated through its platform. Looking back at last year, Microsoft also quietly joined the board of directors of OpenAI as an observer without voting rights. Now, Apple and Microsoft are both on the OpenAI board, which may make discussions about future plans more delicate and complex. It is worth noting that Bloomberg emphasizes that Apple executives rarely serve as board members in partner companies, making this move particularly noteworthy.