My little theory is Microsoft actually learned a lesson from their experience going up against LAMP in the 90s. They got positively wrecked with their "Proprietary, $, closed-source Windows, IIS, ActiveX or whatever" approach.

They release of ton of AI stuff themselves and partner on things like this. They're also big backers/investors in OpenAI and their own proprietary products, of course.

I think they're taking that lesson and hedging their bets this time. It's like how a lot of corporations will donate to both political candidates (in the US) to guarantee they'll have access/influence regardless of how things shake out.