Google is allegedly paying some AI staff to do nothing for a year rather than join rivals

Retaining top AI talent is proving increasingly challenging in the fiercely competitive landscape currently dominated by tech giants like Google, OpenAI, and other key players in the artificial intelligence sector. This escalating competition for skilled professionals underscores the critical importance of talent acquisition and talent retention strategies within the rapidly evolving AI industry.

DeepMind Reportedly Utilizes “Aggressive” Non-Compete Agreements

Google’s artificial intelligence research division, DeepMind, is reportedly employing stringent non-compete agreements for some of its AI specialists based in the UK. According to Business Insider, these agreements prevent personnel from joining rival organizations for a period of up to twelve months after leaving DeepMind.

Compensated Non-Compete Periods and Researcher Concerns

While some affected employees receive remuneration during this stipulated timeframe, effectively experiencing an extended period of paid time off, sources cited by Business Insider suggest this practice can lead to feelings of professional isolation among researchers. The enforced hiatus may cause them to feel detached from the accelerated advancements and ongoing developments within the artificial intelligence field.

US Ban on Non-Competes Inapplicable to DeepMind’s UK Operations

Despite the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) implementing a ban on most non-compete clauses in the United States last year, this regulatory measure does not extend to DeepMind’s headquarters in London. Consequently, the company’s UK operations remain outside the jurisdiction of the US ruling, allowing them to continue utilizing these agreements.

Microsoft Executive Highlights DeepMind Employee Inquiries

Last month, a Vice President of AI at Microsoft shared on social media platform X that DeepMind staff members had been contacting him “in despair.” These individuals reportedly expressed concerns about the difficulties associated with navigating and potentially escaping their non-compete obligations:

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Google’s “Selective” Use of Non-Competes

Google did not offer a response to a request for comment from TechCrunch. However, the company informed Business Insider that it employs non-compete agreements on a “selective” basis, suggesting a targeted rather than universal implementation of these clauses.