Microsoft launches new in-house AI models it says cut costs up to 89% versus OpenAI - VentureBeat

Microsoft has released two new in-house AI models, MAI-Image-2.5-Pro and MAI-Voice-2-Flash, into public preview. The company claims these models reduce GPU computing costs by up to 84% compared to OpenAI's image generation model. According to a VentureBeat report, the overall cost savings can reach up to 89% versus OpenAI's offerings.

The launch marks a shift in Microsoft's strategy, as the company has historically relied heavily on OpenAI's technology. The new models are designed for specific tasks: MAI-Image-2.5-Pro focuses on image generation, while MAI-Voice-2-Flash targets speech processing. Pricing details have not been fully disclosed, but Microsoft positions them as more cost-effective alternatives.

The announcement comes amid growing competition among cloud providers to offer proprietary AI models. Microsoft's move could reduce its dependence on OpenAI and provide customers with lower-cost options. Industry analysts note that the cost reductions are significant but will require validation from independent benchmarks. Microsoft has not commented on how the models compare in quality to OpenAI's.