Meta Platforms is aggressively recruiting top talent from rival AI startup OpenAI, offering signing bonuses of up to $100 million and larger annual compensation packages. According to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Meta’s efforts have yet to yield significant results, with none of his best employees joining the company.
The move comes as Mark Zuckerberg ramps up Meta’s AI capabilities, investing heavily in its “superintelligence” AI lab and research division. Meta has also faced delays in releasing its latest flagship AI model due to concerns over its capabilities.
Zuckerberg’s frustration with Meta’s standing in AI is evident, with sources suggesting he’s willing to invest billions in top talent. Recent hires include Scale AI founder Alexandr Wang, who was acquired by Meta for $14.3 billion, and Google researcher Jack Rae, who joined the company after leaving DeepMind.
However, Altman believes Meta’s approach will not yield success, as it focuses on copying OpenAI’s strategy rather than building a culture of innovation. Despite this, tech analysts argue that Meta’s investments in startups like Scale AI will drive progress in AI development.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/18/sam-altman-says-meta-tried-to-poach-openai-staff-with-100-million-bonuses-mark-zuckerberg.html