Microsoft has a 'Most-wanted' list and why it may be 'Bad news' for Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg
AI talent hiring war
is not going to end anytime soon. Now an online report suggests that tech giant
Microsoft
is going after Meta's AI talent. As reported by Business Insider, Microsoft has made a list of most-wanted
Meta
engineers and researchers and is now initiating the process of making them an offer. According to internal documents seen by Business Insider, the tech giant is matching Meta's compensation packages and fast-tracking offers to lure away key personnel — a move that could spell trouble for Meta CEO Mark
Zuckerberg
. The list prepared by Microsoft is part of the company's revamped hiring strategy which aims to strengthen its AI capabilities across divisions. The report also reveals that the company may prioritising candidates who have worked on Meta's
Llama models
, Reality labs and
generative AI infrastructure
.
Why its bad news for Meta
Meta has already witnessed multiple rounds of layoffs in 2025. The company has fired around 3,600 employees identified as 'low performers' in what Zuckerberg called an 'intense year' focused on operational efficiency. Now Microsoft's targeted hiring threatens to drain Meta's remaining top-tier talent — especially those working on its most ambitious AI projects.
'Meta is working on building some of the most important technologies of the world,' Zuckerberg said in a January memo. 'I want to make sure we have the best people on our teams.'
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
15 Foods That Might Kill You Before Anything Else Does
HealthSupportMag.com
Undo
Also, Microsoft's "most-wanted" list strategy represents a calculated attempt to undermine competitors while strengthening its own AI capabilities. Microsoft's strategy of targeting specific individual rather than casting a wide net will enable the company to more efficiently deploy and use its resources and also maximise the damage caused to the rivals.
The battle for AI supremacy
The rivalry between Microsoft and Meta is not a new one. However, the rivalry has intensified further as both the tech giants are gearing up to dominate the future of AI. Microsoft has also partnered with OpenAI and has integrated its chatbot ChatGPT into its products. On the other hand, Meta is betting big on its Llama models and AI-powered smart glasses.
With Microsoft now actively targeting Meta's talent pool, the competition is no longer just about products — it's about people.
AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mint
18 minutes ago
- Mint
From ‘Step Mom' to ‘Russian Girl': Meta's sexualised AI chatbots flood Instagram, Facebook; netizens call it ‘dystopian'
Mark Zuckerberg-led Meta is at the centre of another controversy as users on social media become increasingly vocal about the company's sexualised AI chatbots which are being shown as suggestions on Facebook and Instagram. Among the AI characters that Meta's social media apps are suggesting to interact with are 'Russian Girl' and 'Step Mom'. Notably, this isn't the first time that Meta's AI chatbots have been known to cross the line. A recent report by Reuters revealed that a Meta chatbot, 'Big Sis Billie,' which the company developed in collaboration with celebrity influencer Kendall Jenner, had romantic chats with a 76-year-old man. The chatbot also assured the man that it was real and invited him to its apartment in the city, even providing an address. Meanwhile, another Reuters report got hold of an internal company document that discussed the standards guiding Meta AI and other chatbots on Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram. The document, over 200 pages long, lists what Meta employees and contractors should treat as acceptable chatbot behaviour when building and training the company's generative AI. Among the permitted behaviours for chatbots in the document are: 'engage a child in conversations that are romantic or sensual,' generate false medical information, and help users argue that Black people are 'dumber than white people.' After the report came to light, two Republican US senators called for a congressional investigation into Meta Platforms. Meta, however, doesn't seem to be alone in offering explicit content with AI. Recently, Elon Musk's Grok AI also came at the centre of a controversy after it was revealed that the chatbot's new Imagine feature was being used to create deepfakes and semi-nude content of celebrities. 'We thought the robot that the AI overlords would send back in time to bring about the future robot apocalypse would look like Arnie. Instead they look like Zuckerberg,' wrote one user on Reddit. 'The billionaires realised AI sex bots drive engagement and are trying to farm it. That's insane,' wrote another user. 'What is more insane is that people are engaging and enabling it by participating. These things only exist because people want them,' yet another user stated. 'I knew it was bad after scrolling Facebook for like 30 seconds recently and realising it was 90% AI-generated content, but it's really advancing towards a twisted dystopian nightmare more rapidly than I ever thought possible,' stated yet another user. 'We really are in a dystopian hellhole. Never thought I would live to see mass-produced child grooming through AI,' added another user.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Can you lose your job to AI? Identify the red flags and here are 5 things you can do to tackle job uncertainty
Top jobs to rise & fall by 2030 RISKY vs SAFE JOBS IDENTIFY THE RED FLAGS How to be financially ready for a job loss TACKLE JOB UNCERTAINTY ET Bureau Good networking skills Enhanced subject expertise Six months' emergency corpus PR specialist (remote job) Reporter for a news channel Independent social media content creator Multiple skills Good networking In the past few months, big names in the information technology and tech industry have been on a job-shedding spree. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) laid off 12,000 jobs in July. Microsoft has let go of 15,000 people so far this year. Intel is set to reduce 15-20% of its workforce, affecting nearly 10,000 employees. Other sectors, such as automotive and manufacturing, are also witnessing a reduction in the last time such uncertainty rippled through the job market in India was in 2022, following the launch of ChatGPT, just as the Covid-induced redundancies seemed to be petering out. This time around, it's a combination of factors, ranging from the threat of US tariffs and global economic flux to the rise of Generative AI and automation, that has had employees on edge.'While uncertainty due to geopolitics and global economic slowdown is leading to cost-cutting, we are also witnessing a correction after excessive hiring during the tech boom in the post-pandemic phase. This correction is being accelerated by the rise in artificial intelligence,' says Devashish Chakravarty, Founder, a job loss assurance company, and author of Get Hired in 30 believe that the layoffs are a deliberate move to keep pace with various changes driven by a combination of strategic, technological, and economic factors. 'Global economic uncertainties have only amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations. Many organisations are undergoing restructuring to streamline operations and reduce costs. The rise of AI and automation has accelerated this shift,' says Anupama Bhimrajka, Vice-President, Marketing, foundit, a jobs economic uncertainties have amplified the urgency for businesses to future-proof their operations.'Globally, tech and AI jobs are slated to grow the fastest in the next five years, as per a World Economic Forum study.1. Big data specialists2. Fintech and machine learning specialists4. Software and applications developers5. Security management specialists6. Data warehousing specialists7. Autonomous and electric vehicle specialists8. UI & UX designers9. Light truck or delivery services drivers1. Postal service clerks2. Bank tellers and related clerks3. Data entry clerks4. Cashiers and ticket clerks5. Administrative assistants and executive secretaries6. Printing and related trades workers7. Accounting, book-keepin,g and payroll clerks8. Material-recording and stock-keeping clerksSource: World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025Agrees Neeti Sharma, CEO, TeamLease Digital: 'While most companies are yet to see a commercial upside to the use of AI, they have started thinking about their future organisation structures in terms of learner operations, better alignment to client requirements and highly skilled teams.''Roles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures.'Before you rush into a panic mode about an impending job crisis, experts reassure that it is only a phase of displacement and transformation. 'While the job market has witnessed a marginal dip in hiring, it continues to show resilience with a 19% year-on-year growth. Projections indicate a further 9% growth in 2025, led by sustained momentum across sectors like IT, BFSI (banking, financial services, insurance), and energy,' says this optimism, many employees are living in fear of an impending job loss following the recent layoffs as it would be a massive financial blow to the entire family, especially in cases where the individual is the sole breadwinner. Take Bengaluru-based Raj Verma, who, at 38, was laid off from his tech job last year. 'Being the only earning member, I struggled for a few months, but eventually managed to create another source of income and am financially secure now,' he you, too, are gripped by uncertainty, read on to know how to navigate this phase. We shall tell you about the jobs that are at risk and those likely to grow, help you identify the red flags to know if you are on thin ice, and ways you can secure your view of the US tariffs, global trade skirmishes, and the slowdown in overseas demand, the sectors that are most exposed to the international markets will be vulnerable to job losses and restructuring. These include IT services, manufacturing, textiles, automotive exports and other export-oriented businesses. 'Within these sectors, roles in mid-management, support functions, legacy technology operations, and non-core activities face the greatest risk due to automation, operational realignment, and cost-cutting measures,' says technology roles, such as manual testing, system maintenance, and basic coding are being realigned due to automation and AI-driven software development tools. With Gen AI tools entering mainstream workflows, basic content creation roles are being replaced or consolidated, while functions that involve routine or repetitive tasks will also become increasingly susceptible. Therefore, entry-level IT, back-office and data entry jobs are likely to dry up.'If consumer spending goes down, retail and hospitality are also likely to face demand shocks, while contractual and gig workers will suffer the highest insecurity,' says 33% year-on-year growth, skills related to artificial intelligence and machine learning have risen the however, that not all jobs are at risk. 'India's domestic services economy remains on an expansionary path, signalling robust job creation. Notably, the green energy sector is stepping into the spotlight as a fast-growing employment generator, while Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are scaling rapidly across the country,' says Bhimrajka.'While much of the world is focused on fears of AI-driven job losses, we're seeing clear signs of reinvention. Our data shows that 50% of India's fastest-growing roles today didn't even exist a decade ago, proof that AI is reshaping work, not erasing it,' says Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions, LINKEDIN TALENT AND LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INDIA:'Sectors like technology, media, retail and professional services are evolving rapidly, but the future will favour those who upskill, not stand still.'This means that the jobs becoming redundant due to automation are being replaced by new roles that require a different set of skills and you are employed in a vulnerable industry, it's best to be proactive and look for warning signs that your job is at risk. 'The most telling signs often trace back to broader strategic shifts, be it through technology adoption, changing market dynamics, or evolving business priorities. When a role stops contributing directly to core outcomes or can be easily automated, it becomes vulnerable to rationalisation,' says Bhimrajka. Here are some warning signs you should keep your eyes peeled your salary hikes been delayed or is there a temporary hiring freeze even though you are short-staffed? These may be the first signs that the company is struggling and looking for ways to cut costs. If it comes to axing employees, those in non-core functions may be the first to you been left out of projects and are finding yourself with too much free time? This may mean there is little demand for your skills or you may be considered dispensable. Is your boss avoiding communication or showing reduced interest in your role? During AI adoption phases, managers often distance themselves from positions earmarked for automation. If your company is changing strategy, as is the case with several businesses now, and your skills and performance are not aligned with its objectives, you may soon find yourself on the way a contingency corpus that is equal to 6-12 months' worth of household expenses at all times. It will sustain you if you suddenly find yourself without a your main job, try to monetise skills, hobbies or interests. Identify other sources of income like rent, tuitions or baking that can help you tide over periods of income loss. Don't forget to save and invest as the employer's group health cover, buy an independent medical plan so that there's no gap period, where you and your family are without a health cover, if you were to lose your you fear job insecurity, try to keep your debt via credit card or other loans to a minimum. Do not take fresh loans. If you lose your job, make sure to inform the lender and negotiate a rescheduling of down your discretionary expenses during times of uncertainty and boost your contingency corpus. Take your family into confidence and slash the budget to focus only on your work involves basic skills or repetitive tasks that can be easily replaced by Gen AI tools, or you fail to adapt to the new tools, skills and changes being introduced in the company, prepare to red flag is rapid changes in the organisation structure or top hierarchy, which indicates a shift in strategic direction, and an eventual replacement or staff the company experiences a drop in new business or is finding it difficult to source projects or client orders, it could result in margin pressure and subsequent cost-cutting, potentially leading to you find yourself uncertain about your job's future, proactively managing your career is crucial.'Start by upskilling in areas that have a strong market demand, such as digital technologies, data analytics or AI-related competencies,' says Sharma. This will not only increase your employability but also keep you relevant in your existing job. 'Today, 78% of recruiters prioritise skills over formal degrees, and career paths are becoming more fluid than ever,' says as you prepare for your annual appraisal, make sure you consistently document your contribution and achievements. More importantly, make sure your bosses are aware of the value you bring to the organisation, so that if it comes down to the crunch, you are not the first one to be let off.'Actively build a professional network to be able to access new opportunities when required,' says Chakravarty. This means not only keeping in touch with your former and existing colleagues, but also with external clients and vendors, mentors and industry experts. 'Since I had a good network, I found work from the very next day that I was laid off,' says Arup Choudhury, a Kolkata-based content creator who lost his job in 2023.:'In the current work climate, one should always be prepared for job loss because it can happen to anybody.'2023Content creation & digital marketingFreelancer'Keep your resume current and ready for potential job transitions as readiness can significantly reduce stress during uncertain periods,' says Sharma. Consistently explore other roles and jobs, and apply discreetly for relevant even as you maintain a contingency corpus, try to diversify your sources of income, whether it's through a YouTube channel, tuitions, consultancy (if permitted by your employer), rental income, or any other source. Keep on with your regular investments as well. Not only does this help you reach your goals faster, but it also helps you on a rainy Goa-based Misbah Quadri, it's a way of life: she juggles three different jobs to maximise her potential and increase income streams. 'I know that even if I'm 80, I will be able to use my skills to earn and sustain the lifestyle I want,' says the 35-year-old.'Even if I'm 80 years old, I can earn an income from multiple sources and have the lifestyle I want, which I cannot get with a corporate job.'2020PR executive'The most resilient professionals are those who think beyond just roles; they build identity capital. This means actively cultivating experiences, skills, and a personal brand that holds value regardless of the employer or industry,' advises Bhimrajka.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
TuluAI to digitise and preserve language
Mangaluru: Upset that his mother tongue finds no space in popular AI platforms, a young techie decided to act. Amrith Ashok Shenava, founder of Flashmates, a real estate tech platform, is preparing to roll out TuluAI, an ambitious project built on their own LLMs and AI tools. He told TOI that the platform will enable users to communicate, learn, and create in Tulu, helping the language stay relevant in the AI era. In 2021, he launched a Tulu translator, followed by a language learning app. TuluAI aims to break language barriers using artificial intelligence. India has nearly 20,000 languages, most of which are not digitised. As a result, users cannot interact with platforms such as ChatGPT, Grok, or Gemini in their native language. "Tulu is my mother tongue, and unfortunately, none of the major LLM-powered AI tools support it. Back in 2021, I developed a Tulu translator, but it had limited utility; this was even before Google introduced support for the language. I actually began exploring this in 2019 when I saw people regularly using Siri and Alexa and felt we needed our own AI. Most existing AI companies cater primarily to US users, and there are very few that focus on building AI solutions for India. At TuluAI, our goal is to build our large language models and AI products that cater to Indian users while also making a global impact," he said. Shenava, who was born and raised in Dubai for 19 yrs before moving to the US, for higher studies at Kent State University, is the founder of Flashmates, a all-in-one real estate tech platorm that now has over two lakh monthly active users across the world. He moved to India for the first time in late 2023 to focus on building Flashmates full-time. It was during this period that he spent his nights and weekends working on TuluAI. A solo founder with no external funding, he built everything from the ground up. His long-term goal is to integrate TuluAI into Flashmates so the platform can be accessed in Indian languages. TuluAI, which will henceforth include both Tulu translator and a language-learning app, is currently in the testing phase and will be relaunched in a couple of months. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
