International Business Machines Corp. (NYSE:IBM) said Thursday it has formed a strategic partnership with OpenAI to help companies deploy artificial intelligence across core business operations while strengthening cybersecurity.

The companies will jointly develop industry-specific AI solutions for financial services, government, telecommunications and retail. They will also target business functions such as finance, procurement, customer operations and human resources.

Embeds OpenAI Models Into Consulting Platform

IBM will integrate OpenAI frontier models, including GPT-5.6, along with Codex and ChatGPT Work, into Consulting Advantage. The platform combines AI agents, industry tools and cybersecurity capabilities.

The partnership aims to address a key hurdle for enterprise AI adoption: integrating the technology with legacy systems and complex workflows.

The company will deploy specialized engineers and consultants trained through the OpenAI Partner Network to work directly with clients. In addition, the company will launch a dedicated OpenAI Practice with thousands of consultants and engineers pursuing advanced certifications.

Partnership Targets Software And Cybersecurity

IBM and OpenAI also plan to combine Codex and ChatGPT Work with IBM’s technology and industry expertise. The companies said the effort could help clients modernize older applications, streamline software development and accelerate new digital products.

Meanwhile, the companies will expand their cybersecurity work following IBM’s participation in the OpenAI Daybreak Cyber Partner Program. They plan to combine OpenAI’s AI capabilities with IBM Autonomous Security to address cyber threats, AI model risks and governance gaps.

IBM will also join OpenAI’s Elite partner tier as part of the collaboration.

Price Action

IBM Price Action: IBM shares were down 0.08% at $235.78 at the time of publication on Thursday, according to Benzinga Pro data.

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