June 18 (Reuters) - Microsoft ( MSFT ) is prepared to

abandon its high-stakes negotiations with OpenAI over the future

of its alliance, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday.

The tech giant has considered pausing discussions with the

ChatGPT maker if the two sides remain unable to agree on

critical issues such as the size of Microsoft's ( MSFT ) future stake in

OpenAI, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

The company plans to rely on its existing commercial

contract to maintain access to OpenAI's technology until 2030,

according to the FT report.

Microsoft ( MSFT ) and OpenAI did not immediately respond to

Reuters' requests for comment.

OpenAI executives have considered accusing Microsoft ( MSFT ) of

anticompetitive behavior in their deal, the Wall Street Journal

reported on

Monday, adding that both the companies are discussing

revising the terms of Microsoft's ( MSFT ) investment, including the

future equity stake it will hold in the AI startup.

Microsoft's ( MSFT ) multi-billion dollar investments into OpenAI

has been a key factor in positioning it as a leading player in

the artificial intelligence space.

OpenAI requires approval from Microsoft ( MSFT ), its major

backer, to complete its transition into a public-benefit

corporation, which it believes will make it easier to raise more

capital.