Microsoft Plans AI Service With Databricks That Could Hurt OpenAI

Microsoft is planning to start selling a new version of Databricks software that helps customers make AI apps for their businesses, The Information reported on Thursday, citing people with direct knowledge of the plan. Databricks – a data analytics platform that uses artificial intelligence, which Microsoft would sell through its Azure cloud-server unit – helps companies make AI models from scratch or repurpose open-source models as an alternative to licensing OpenAI’s proprietary ones, the report added. Meanwhile, Microsoft said on Thursday it would pull the plug on Xbox 360’s online store and marketplace next year, as it focuses on its latest consoles and subscription service Game Pass. Microsoft is, however, allowing users to play with their already purchased Xbox 360 games and older titles that are compatible with the console.