Hey tech enthusiasts! 🌐 The European Union is turning up the heat on Big Tech's AI adventures. Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, and Samsung are all in the spotlight as EU regulators examine their recent partnerships.
What's the buzz? 🐝
EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager announced plans to dig deeper into Microsoft's exclusive partnership with OpenAI. She raised concerns that certain exclusivity clauses might be shutting out competitors. 😮
Vestager mentioned, \"We have reviewed the replies, and are now sending a follow-up request for information on the agreement between Microsoft and OpenAI to understand whether certain exclusivity clauses could have a negative effect on competitors.\"
Why it matters 📣
This move highlights global worries about how tech giants might use their power in the AI space, potentially squeezing out smaller players. It's like déjà vu of their dominance in other tech sectors! 🔄
Google and Samsung under the lens 🔍
The EU is also looking into Google's AI deal with Samsung. Earlier this year, Google inked a multi-year agreement to embed its generative AI tech into Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S24 smartphones. Vestager wants to ensure this partnership doesn't hinder competition.
\"We are sending requests for information to better understand the effects of Google's arrangement with Samsung,\" she said.
Acqui-hires: The new trend? 🤝
Vestager is also keeping an eye on \"acqui-hires,\" where companies buy startups mainly for their talent. For instance, Microsoft's $650 million acquisition of the startup Inflection in March allowed it to harness new models and bring in fresh talent.
\"We will make sure these practices don't slip through our merger control rules if they basically lead to a concentration,\" Vestager emphasized.
What’s next? 🚀
As the EU ramps up its antitrust efforts, Big Tech companies may need to rethink their strategies. It's a developing story, so stay tuned for updates! 📰
Reference(s):
AI deals among Microsoft, OpenAI, Google and Samsung in EU crosshairs
cgtn.com
