Google’s co-founder Sergey Brin is pushing the company’s artificial intelligence (AI) teams to enhance their productivity significantly. In a recent internal memo, Brin encouraged the AI teams to work 60-hour weeks and to come into the office at least every weekday. He emphasized the need for urgency in their efforts, stating that while they have made great strides in the Gemini program and Google DeepMind over the past two years, competition in the field of AI has intensified. Brin noted that the race toward achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI) is becoming increasingly competitive, and he believes Google has the necessary resources to succeed but must accelerate its pace.
Brin also criticized the current approach taken by AI workers, urging them to refrain from creating overly cautious products and to trust users more. He expressed concern that the company’s AI offerings have become bogged down with excessive filters and limitations. This call for a shift in focus aligns with comments made by Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who recently highlighted the importance of 2025 as a pivotal year for the company. Pichai stressed the need for Google to act quickly to harness the benefits of AI technology and address real user needs.
In related developments, discussions regarding AI regulations in Europe are ongoing. Risto Uuk, head of EU policy and research at the Future of Life Institute, shared insights about how major tech companies, including Google, are responding to proposed AI regulations. He noted that some companies are reluctant to agree to a code of practice unless it aligns with their interests. Uuk also mentioned that an open letter advocating for a six-month pause on advanced AI models to improve safety protocols did not achieve its intended results, as many companies have not increased their safety measures as suggested.
