Who is Varun Mohan, Windsurf CEO who triggered a talent war between Google and OpenAI?
Talking about the latest development, Jeff Wang, Windsurf's new interim CEO, said that most of the company's world-class team will continue to build the Windsurf product with the goal of maximising its impact in the enterprise.
Windsurf, which is among the fastest-growing startups in software development workflows, was on its way to being acquired by AI powerhouse OpenAI, and was in advanced talks until last month. Interestingly, Google is not acquiring the startup but is paying a whopping $2.4 billion for a nonexclusive licence for certain Windsurf technologies, essentially allowing the company to continue to licence its tools to others.
After the talent from Windsurf joined Google, a company spokesperson said in an email, 'We're excited to welcome some top AI coding talent from Windsurf's team to Google DeepMind to advance our work in agentic coding.'
Meanwhile, Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis took to X to express his excitement and welcome the new members.
Thrilled to welcome @windsurf_ai founders @_mohansolo & Douglas Chen and some of the brilliant Windsurf eng team to @GoogleDeepMind. Excited to be working with them to turbocharge our Gemini efforts on coding agents, tool use and much more. Great to have you on board! https://t.co/7LZ6MtO2p4
— Demis Hassabis (@demishassabis) July 11, 2025
According to earlier reports by CNBC, OpenAI and Windsurf were in talks for an acquisition deal worth $3 billion. However, with the latest agreement, Google has veered ahead, further aggravating the ongoing talent war among big tech that are currently vying for top talents and leaders in AI and innovation to further their AI strategies.
Who is Varun Mohan?
The former CEO of Windsurf, Mohan, is reportedly the child of immigrant parents from India who grew up in Sunnyvale, California. He attended the Harker School in San Jose, and as a student, he was known to demonstrate an aptitude for mathematics and computing Olympiads. Between 2014 and 2017, Mohan earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He later went on to obtain a master's degree in engineering from MIT in 2017 with a focus on OS, algorithms, distributed computing, ML, and performance engineering.
In the formative years of his career, Mohan reportedly worked at top tech companies such as Nuro, Quora, LinkedIn, Databricks, Samsung, etc., accumulating a deep experience in software, systems, and engineering. Mohan has been widely recognised for his strong analytical skills and his ability to convert complex algorithms into production code.
In 2021, he co-founded the company Codeium, later renamed as Windsurf, along with his MIT classmate and long-time friend Douglas Chen. The company, initially, pursued GPU virtualisation infrastructure but later moved to IDE Plugin and standalone AI-native IDE. Reportedly, under Mohan's leadership, Windsurf acquired over one million developers in just four months after its launch. The company raised $243 million, catapulting its net worth to $1.25 billion.
Mohan is among the first to push the agentic IDE concept that brought together large language models with agentic workflows like Cascade. He strongly believes that AI will handle most routine coding, allowing engineers to focus on problem identification, system design, etc.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
40 minutes ago
- Time of India
Aquarius Daily Horoscope Today (Aaj Ka Kumbh Rashifal), July 14, 2025: Doubt is a visitor, not a guide
Today you may feel moments of self-doubt or second thoughts. These feelings are natural but not meant to control your actions. Do not give it too much space in your mind. Your energy is strong, but it must be protected from negative thinking. Trust your efforts so far and allow yourself to take the next step with confidence. Sometimes courage means doing it even with uncertainty. Keep going with faith. Aquarius Love Horoscope Today In love, you may feel unsure about where things are going. If in a relationship, do not assume the worst without talking openly. Doubt may rise, but it can fade with one honest conversation. Avoid overthinking. Your partner may be feeling the same, just waiting for a gentle moment to reconnect. If single, stop doubting your worth. Love flows to those who believe they deserve it. You are more ready than you know. Aquarius Career Horoscope Today Career brings you a chance to prove your quiet strength. Even if your confidence shakes, your ability to deliver will speak for itself. Do not let small mistakes or comparisons distract you. Focus on what you can control and give your best. Let your work speak quietly. Avoid reacting emotionally at meetings or rushing to defend yourself. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Confidence today is calm and steady. Others will notice your focus, even if you feel unsure inside. Keep showing up with intention. Aquarius Money Horoscope Today Financially, today you may doubt if you are doing enough. That pressure can lead to unnecessary decisions. Do not let fear guide your hand. Take a moment to breathe, review your spending, and make one thoughtful financial move. This is not a day for risk-taking. Instead, practice financial self-trust. What you have is enough for now. Let your stability grow slowly. Do not waste your energy worrying about the future. Your consistency will provide more than your worry ever will. Aquarius Health Horoscope Today Your mind may feel a bit cloudy today, especially if you've been doing too much thinking and not enough resting. Doubt can take a toll on the body by creating tension, headaches, or shallow breathing. Pause and reset. Do not push yourself too hard. Go for a walk, drink water slowly, and do some light stretches. Let your breath lead you back to peace. Your health improves when you stop letting stress speak louder than your own calm voice. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
News18
an hour ago
- News18
Horoscope Today, July 14: Balance For Libra, Boldness For Aries, And More
Last Updated: Horoscope Today, July 14, 2025: Libra finds balance, Aries takes bold steps, and Scorpio gains praise. Discover what the stars say for your zodiac sign today. Horoscope Today, July 14, 2025: Every day is special and unique. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities. To be prepared for the challenges and events coming today, you can get information by reading today's horoscope (Aaj Ka Rashifal). There will be harmony in the family life of Aries. Taurus people should pay attention to all aspects before considering any new investment. Gemini people will also have harmony in their family life. If Cancer people move forward thoughtfully, success will kiss their feet. Leo people should be cautious in financial matters. Virgo people should get complete information before making a big investment. Libra people should be cautious about their health. The hard work and dedication of Scorpio people will be appreciated. Sagittarius people's positive thinking and enthusiastic nature will make the environment pleasant. Capricorn people's relationships will be strong. Aquarius people will be able to create their special identity among their colleagues. Pisces people should focus on understanding and communicating with their partner in matters of love. Aries Horoscope Today Ganesha says today, you can participate in some creative activities that will give you satisfaction and happiness. Emotionally, you will be attentive to others and try to understand their needs. There will be harmony in family life as well. However, take care of your health; a little exercise and a balanced diet will be beneficial for you. Some new ideas may come to you in business, which you need to seriously consider. If you are thinking of changing jobs, then this may be the right time to prove yourself. In short, today will be full of positivity and useful opportunities for you. Taurus Horoscope Today Ganesha says your efforts at work may get due recognition. Present your ideas clearly and do not miss out on new opportunities. You are advised to be cautious in financial matters. Pay attention to all aspects before considering any new investment. Your health will be normal, but do not ignore small things. Yoga or meditation can help improve your mental health. Romance can be seen in a new color in personal life today; spend special time with your partner. Overall, today is a day of introspection and clarity for you. It is the right time to think about plans and pay more attention to the things that make you happy. Lucky Number: 11 Lucky Colour: Pink Gemini Horoscope Today Ganesha says communication will prove to be important for you, so speak openly. Your ideas will be appreciated in business, but you need to have faith in yourself. This is the time to make important decisions, so act wisely. There will be harmony in family life as well, but keep in mind not to encourage disputes over small matters. In terms of health, you need to be a little careful today, especially if you are feeling tired. It is also necessary to remain mentally active. In the late evening, spend a pleasant time with friends and family. Enjoy small moments of happiness and look at your life from a positive perspective. Cancer Horoscope Today Ganesha says try to spend time with family, this will strengthen your relationship. New possibilities can be seen in business. Implement your plans at the right time and avoid any emotional decisions. If you move forward thoughtfully, success will kiss your feet. Today will also be a good day in terms of health. Doing light exercises will refresh both your mind and body. Overall, you need to maintain a balanced and moderate behavior today. Trust your insights and move ahead with confidence. Leo Horoscope Today Ganesha says an important opportunity may appear for you today, do not miss recognizing it. Take care in terms of your health, and resort to meditation or yoga to avoid mental stress. Be alert in financial matters, and avoid any unnecessary expenditure. Participation in social activities will be beneficial for you, and meeting new people will give you new inspiration. The shine of your personality will increase even more today, and you will become the center of attraction for others. Overall, this day is helpful for you to stay energetic and positive. Be determined towards your goal and believe in your abilities. Virgo Horoscope Today Ganesha says from an emotional point of view, today you will feel very confident. This is the time to focus on your relationships. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction and happiness. In terms of health, meditation can improve your mental health. Small things can spoil your mood, so maintain positivity. There is a need to make wise decisions on the financial front today. Get complete information before making any big investment. Today is going to bring personal growth and pleasant experiences for you. Have faith in your abilities and move forward. Lucky Number: 7 Lucky Colour: Yellow Libra Horoscope Today Ganesha says in business, your creativity and vision will provide new opportunities. You can increase cooperation with colleagues, which will make the workplace environment favorable. Today, you may also get a chance to gain some new information; take advantage of it. Positive changes are possible in personal relationships with open communication. Spend time with your loved ones and strengthen mutual relationships. Be cautious about health; a short exercise or meditation routine will give you energy and freshness. Remember, maintaining balance is the key to success for you. Scorpio Horoscope Today Ganesha says your communication skills will be very effective today, which will help you express your thoughts in a better way. This is the time to strengthen relationships with your loved ones. Spend time with those who are important to you. If you are in the workplace, focusing on teamwork is of more importance today. Big goals can be achieved with cooperation. Your hard work and dedication will be appreciated, which will increase your reputation. In terms of health, try to do yoga and meditation. You need to relax for a while to get mental peace. Maintain positive thinking and focus on your goal. Thus, today is going to bring you good opportunities in the field of success, relationships, and health. Lucky Number: 12 Lucky Colour: Red Sagittarius Horoscope Today Ganesha says in personal life, you will try to spend time with your loved ones. Harmony will increase in the family, and any minor problems may be resolved. Your positive thinking and enthusiastic nature will make the atmosphere pleasant. In terms of health, this is the time to maintain your mental and physical balance. Yoga and meditation will prove beneficial for you. Engaging in social activities will bring you happiness and satisfaction. Just keep in mind to maintain a balance between your work and personal life. Overall, today will be a day full of new possibilities and happiness for you. Keep moving towards your dreams and keep spreading positivity around you. Lucky Number: 4 Lucky Colour: Orange Capricorn Horoscope Today Ganesha says you may get a chance to make some new plans, so listen to them carefully and move forward according to your goal. In personal relationships, too, the feeling of love and support will prevail, which will strengthen your relationship. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will be beneficial for your mental and physical health. Take some time for yourself and follow your interests. Participating in social activities will not only give you pleasure but will also establish new contacts, which can be beneficial for you in the future. Be patient and have faith in your decisions. The day will be full of opportunities and positive changes for you. Lucky Number: 8 Lucky Colour: White Aquarius Horoscope Today Ganesha says your creativity will be at its peak today, so if you have a project, this is a pleasant time to start it. Your hard work in the workplace will pay off, and you will be able to create a special identity among your colleagues. In terms of health, take the help of meditation and yoga to keep yourself refreshed today. Mental stability and peace will be extremely important for you. Keep in mind, no matter what the situation, maintain your confidence. Steps taken in the right direction will help you achieve success. Do not forget to spend time with your loved ones; talking to them will give you new energy. Lucky Number: 10 Lucky Colour: Navy Blue Pisces Horoscope Today Ganesha says today's circumstances can bring new possibilities for you, especially in the field of work. Your creativity will emerge rapidly, and this will help you to realize some wonderful ideas. In terms of love, focus on understanding and communicating with your partner. Your feelings will go deep today, and this will prove to help strengthen your relationship. You need to pay attention to your health. A little physical activity and meditation will help maintain your mental balance. Remember, your inner peace is most important. Spend today with positive thoughts, and you will be successful. top videos View all Lucky Number: 3 Lucky Colour: Magenta (The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla). About the Author Chirag Daruwalla Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, Tarot, More Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Chirag Daruwalla Daily Horoscope horoscope HOROSCOPE 2025 Horoscope today view comments Location : Mumbai, India, India First Published: July 14, 2025, 06:00 IST News astrology Horoscope Today, July 14: Balance For Libra, Boldness For Aries, And More Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Mint
an hour ago
- Mint
Mint Primer: GPT-5 is coming, but can OpenAI retain its edge?
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has hinted at a GPT-5 launch in the coming months, but a host of legal and corporate issues—not to mention lurking Chinese rivals—could steal its thunder. Whether GPT-5 proves a leap or just an upgrade will decide its place in the AI race. Can GPT-5 be a game-changer? OpenAI's most anticipated model is expected to advance reasoning, memory and adaptability through persistent (human-like long-term) memory, better navigation and more autonomous, agent-like behaviour—steps towards artificial general intelligence (AGI). GPT-5 may also unify reasoning and multimodal functions, handling text, images, audio and possibly video with longer context windows and a mixture-of-experts system (that activates only parts of a model needed for a task) for speedier and more efficient responses. OpenAI also plans to drop suffixes like 'mini" and 'o" in favour of a unified GPT series. Can OpenAI's rivals queer the pitch? The AI race is relentless. If OpenAI launched GPT-4o, o3 and o4-mini, its rivals matched its offerings. Google has Gemini 2.5 Pro and Ultra, Meta has Llama 3, Anthropic has Claude 4, and xAI boasts of Grok-4. Meta and Amazon are also building AGI labs and poaching OpenAI talent. Google hired Varun Mohan, the CEO of AI startup Windsurf, which OpenAI failed to acquire. With AGI ambitions rising across the board, OpenAI faces pressure to reaffirm its lead. A delayed or underwhelming GPT-5 could shift the momentum, especially as enterprise users and developers increasingly seek more capable, reliable models. How are users responding to the development? saw 5.24 billion monthly visits, ranking fifth globally, as per Semrush May figures. Google and YouTube led with over 210 billion combined visits, while Meta's Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp totalled 25 billion. Reddit and X followed with 4.5 billion and 3.9 billion monthly visits, respectively. What else is dogging OpenAI? OpenAI faces lawsuits from The New York Times, India's ANI and authors over training data use, complicating GPT-5 release. Exits of co-founder Ilya Sutskever and researcher Jan Leike signal internal concerns over AGI safety. Meanwhile, faster, cheaper open-weight models like Meta's Llama, Google's Gemma, Mistral's Mixtral and China's DeepSeek offer greater customization. GPT-5 must deliver clear advantages such as autonomy or real-time context to stand out in a market shifting towards open and flexible solutions. How is OpenAI gearing up for the future? Altman says current AI models are already AGI-ready in many ways and generating 'real economic value." To stay ahead, GPT-5 must reduce hallucinations, improve memory and reasoning, and act more autonomously. Meanwhile, OpenAI is developing AI-first hardware and planning a browser to rival Google's Chrome. But concerns over AGI misuse persist. If OpenAI gets the balance right, GPT-5 could mark real AGI progress. Otherwise, it risks becoming just another overhyped release in a changing AI landscape.
