Intel, now struggling against AI competitors, turned down an opportunity to own 15% of OpenAI

(Credit: I-HWA CHENG—AFP/Getty Images)

Intel’s lagging fortunes could have been different if it had made a single investment. 

In 2017 and 2018, the tech company had the chance to take a 15% stake in OpenAI for $1 billion, Reuters reported, citing four people with direct knowledge of the discussions. On top of that, Intel could have bought another 15% stake if it offered OpenAI its hardware at cost, according to two of the people.