Microsoft invests $1.5 billion in Emirati AI company

Microsoft is investing $1.5 billion in G42, an artificial intelligence company, to take a minority stake and a seat on the board of directors.

Here's What We Know

As part of the partnership, G42 will run its AI applications and services on Microsoft's Azure cloud computing platform to deliver advanced AI capabilities to public sector customers and large enterprises around the world.

Microsoft President Brad Smith, who will now take a seat on the G42 board, said: "We will combine world-class technology with leading global standards for safe, reliable and responsible artificial intelligence in close coordination with the UAE and US governments.

The companies will work together to bring advanced AI and digital infrastructure to the Middle East, Central Asia and Africa.

The partnership comes amid Washington's efforts to curb Beijing's technological advancement, with the US adding four Chinese companies to an export blacklist that wanted to buy US AI chips for the Chinese military.

G42 has divested its investments in China and has begun a lengthy effort to seize Chinese equipment.

Source: Reuters