Nvidia's US$10 billion investment in OpenAI is sparking discussions about its impact on the AI industry. In response, Microsoft Taiwan general manager Sean Pien expressed a positive outlook on the collaboration, stating that global tech giants continue to expand infrastructure investments and increase capital expenditures (capex) because they recognize the tangible benefits of AI applications. He also underscored the strengthening strategic partnership between Microsoft and OpenAI.
Tech giants return to infrastructure focus
Pien addressed questions about Nvidia's investment in OpenAI during DevDays Asia 2025 on September 23, 2025.
He's analysis indicates that global technology leaders have been advancing artificial intelligence (AI) development for several years. Initially, their focus was on infrastructure, approximately two to three years ago, before transitioning to applications. However, they are now redirecting their efforts towards substantial investments in both infrastructure and capital expenditures (capex). This strategic shift reflects an increasing acknowledgment of the benefits associated with AI applications. In alignment with this trend, Microsoft is continuing its investments in data center construction in Taiwan.
Partnership with OpenAI remains robust
Pien stressed that Microsoft's strategic partnership with OpenAI remains strong, including ongoing integration of the latest models released by OpenAI.
Microsoft has observed diverse customer demands for AI models, noting there is "no absolute leader" in model capabilities. Therefore, it aims to offer as many options as possible on its platform, which hosts over 10,000 models, with approximately 1,000 frequently used.
Computing power partnerships expand
Regarding computing power needs, Microsoft remains OpenAI's primary partner. When demand exceeds global supply capacity, OpenAI can seek other suppliers externally.
Article translated by Charlene Chen and edited by Jerry Chen
