Two computer monitors on a desk, each displaying a facial expression of annoyance or frustration. The monitor on the left displays a start menu with the label "Microsoft 365 Copilot", while the monitor on the right has a browser window open with tabs, one of which is labeled "ChatGPT Plus" and features the OpenAI logo. The setting suggests an office environment, and the background reveals a blue tiled wall, implying an indoor setting without any visible Windows. [Image produced with DALL-E and Gimp] [Caption assisted by ALT Text Artist GPT]

Microsoft has just announced the launch of its own ‘GPT Builder’ for customizing chatbots, similar to OpenAI’s ‘GPT Store’. This was part of a broader announcement of Copilot Pro, a premium AI-powered service for Microsoft 365 users to enhance productivity, code, and text writing. According to Satya Nadella’s announcement today on Threads, Microsoft and OpenAI appear to be competing entities, yet they are working on the same technology (GPT), augmented by Microsoft’s investment in OpenAI. It certainly seems like a strange business strategy for Microsoft. Please provide some insight into the move’s rationale and strategic motivations.