GeekWire Stargate, OpenAI and Microsoft; BlueSky in Seattle; and Madrona's big new funds
23 snips
Jan 25, 2025 Explore the implications of Project Stargate as OpenAI teams up with Oracle and Softbank, reshaping its ties with Microsoft. Discover what Satya Nadella's remarks reveal about this venture and Elon Musk's influence in the tech world. The podcast also covers the launch of Madrona's hefty new fund aimed at bolstering startups in the Pacific Northwest. Plus, a nostalgic look at Microsoft’s past via an old CD-ROM sheds light on the company’s evolution in a competitive landscape.
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Tech's Political Influence
- Tech leaders like Bezos, Zuckerberg, Pichai, and Ellison attended the inauguration, showing tech's growing political influence.
- Elon Musk's presence signals his potential to influence policy, especially given his known disagreements with Bezos and Microsoft.
Stargate and Microsoft
- OpenAI's Project Stargate, a $500B AI investment with Oracle and Softbank, raises questions about OpenAI's relationship with Microsoft.
- Despite OpenAI diversifying cloud partners, Microsoft retains right of first refusal and secured a large cloud contract from OpenAI.
Nadella's Response to Musk
- Satya Nadella responded to Elon Musk's skepticism about Stargate by highlighting Microsoft's $80B investment in Azure.
- This emphasizes Microsoft's commitment to AI, regardless of Stargate's success.
