In the fiercely competitive AI industry, Google's AI division, DeepMind, has resorted to extreme measures to retain top talent. According to Business Insider, some of its AI employees in the UK have signed "aggressive" non-compete agreements, preventing them from working for competitors for a year after leaving. This not only restricts their career choices but also prevents them from participating in the rapidly evolving technological advancements within the industry during that year.

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Reports indicate that these employees continue to receive their salaries during this period, essentially receiving a year-long paid leave. However, this practice has left some researchers feeling isolated and disconnected from industry developments. Although the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) banned most non-compete agreements last year, this ban doesn't apply to DeepMind's London headquarters, leaving employees subject to these restrictions.

Recently, a vice president of Microsoft's AI division posted on the social media platform X, stating that DeepMind employees had reached out to him, expressing their desperation to be released from these non-compete agreements. This situation has drawn considerable attention, highlighting the complexities of AI talent mobility and its impact on individual career development.

In response to Business Insider, Google stated that they use non-compete agreements "selectively." This statement hasn't quelled concerns about the company's human resources management practices, especially in such a rapidly changing industry.

With the rapid advancement of AI technology, competition among major tech companies is intensifying. Google is attempting to protect its technological advantage through this method, but whether this measure will affect employee satisfaction and industry innovation remains to be seen.

Key Points:

🔒 Google's DeepMind in the UK is implementing non-compete agreements, restricting some AI employees from joining competitors for a year after leaving.

💰 During this period, these employees receive their salaries, essentially a year-long paid leave.

😟 A Microsoft AI vice president revealed that DeepMind employees feel desperate due to these non-compete agreements and are seeking relief.