Apple has obtained observer status on the OpenAI board. This has strengthened the cooperation between Apple and OpenAI, and there is analysis that Apple could exert influence on the OpenAI board similar to Microsoft (MS).
On the 2nd (local time), Bloomberg News reported, citing sources, that Phil Schiller, head of the Apple App Store and former marketing chief, was selected as an observer on the OpenAI board.
This follows Apple's announcement last month of strategic cooperation, including providing ChatGPT as part of its AI service Apple Intelligence on its devices such as the iPhone and iPad. The board composition change is scheduled to take effect at the end of this year, and Schiller has not yet attended meetings as an observer. Specific details may change.
Schiller is not Apple's AI executive but is a seasoned veteran in the brand division. He stepped down as marketing chief in 2020 and currently serves as an Apple Fellow, overseeing the App Store and new product launch events.
Bloomberg explained that Apple obtaining the observer role on the board places Apple on equal footing with MS, OpenAI's largest shareholder. Observers cannot vote or exercise director authority but can attend board meetings. This allows them to directly see how OpenAI's decision-making process unfolds. MS is also an observer on the OpenAI board.
This could put MS, Apple's rival and partner for decades, in an awkward position. MS is OpenAI's largest shareholder and key partner. It is highly likely that future AI initiatives between OpenAI and MS will be discussed on the OpenAI board. MS could refuse Schiller's attendance. Observers can leave during sensitive discussions.
Apple's senior executives often serve as directors of other companies, but joining the board of a prominent partner company is unusual. Apple once invested $1 billion in Didi Global, the Chinese version of Uber, and temporarily secured board attendance rights.
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