London: Microsoft has unveiled plans to establish a new artificial intelligence (AI) hub in London, focusing on both product development and research initiatives. Leading this venture will be Mustafa Suleyman, the London-born co-founder of Google DeepMind (GOOGL.O), who recently joined Microsoft last month.
Why It’s Important
As a primary investor in OpenAI, the entity behind ChatGPT, Microsoft stands at the forefront of the rapidly evolving AI landscape. However, the competition for AI talent has intensified across Europe over the past 18 months. Microsoft’s move suggests a strategic aim to attract experts from other AI-focused companies such as DeepMind or OpenAI to bolster its new unit.
Moreover, this development signifies a victory for Britain, which has been actively promoting itself as a technology hub, notably after hosting the world’s inaugural global AI safety summit in November.
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Background
Mustafa Suleyman’s transition to head Microsoft’s in-house AI division occurred last month, following his departure from his own company, Inflection AI. His move, accompanied by several staff members, stirred some controversy, as it enabled Microsoft to sidestep the regulatory scrutiny typically associated with conventional acquisitions.
What Do the Stats Say?
While the exact number of jobs to be created by the new center remains undisclosed, Microsoft’s announcement aligns with its recent commitment to invest £2.5 billion ($3.16 billion) in data center infrastructure and the enhancement of AI skills throughout Britain.
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Notable Quote
“I know – through my close work with thought leaders in the UK Government, business community and academia – that the country is committed to advancing AI responsibly and with a safety-first commitment to drive investment, innovation and economic growth,” stated Suleyman in a company blog post published on Monday. “Our decision to open this hub in the UK reflects this ambition.”
