Google officially recruits CEO Varun Mohan, co-founder Douglas Chen, and a top expert team from the cryptocurrency startup Windsurf.
Despite the $2.4 billion acquisition deal for Windsurf by OpenAI collapsing, Google still secured technology licensing rights and expanded the AI team at DeepMind to accelerate the development of digital coding products.
MAIN CONTENT
Google hires the CEO, co-founder along with Windsurf experts, paying $2.4 billion for technology licensing.
Windsurf remains independent, developing products, not owned or controlled by Google.
The acquisition deal by OpenAI collapsed due to concerns that Microsoft would access proprietary technology.
How did Google recruit the Windsurf leadership team?
Google announced the signing of a contract with CEO Varun Mohan, co-founder Douglas Chen, and the key personnel team of Windsurf, with a financial commitment of $2.4 billion for technology licensing and increasing AI capabilities for DeepMind.
Chris Pappas, Google spokesperson, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Windsurf's top talents to the DeepMind team, aiming to drive research and development in AI programming.” Hiring personnel does not directly own Windsurf but only licenses technology, which is becoming a trend in the industry.
The acceptance of this leadership team along with Windsurf's technologies marks a significant advance in Google's ability to develop AI programming tools.
Chris Pappas, Google spokesperson, June 2024
CEO Varun Mohan and Douglas Chen shared with TechCrunch: “We are proud of what Windsurf has achieved in the past four years and are excited to partner with Google DeepMind to enter a new phase of development.” Jeff Wang, Business Director, will take on the role of interim CEO of Windsurf.
Why did OpenAI's deal with Windsurf fail?
Negotiations between OpenAI and Windsurf did not reach an agreement because OpenAI was concerned that Microsoft – the largest investor – could access Windsurf's proprietary coding technology, which limited renegotiation with Microsoft.
The Wall Street Journal once emphasized concerns about technology monopolies when OpenAI had access to Windsurf's intellectual property. After the expiration of the purchase priority period, Windsurf expanded its negotiation capabilities with other major players in the AI market.
As the AI market becomes increasingly competitive, choosing strategic partners with technology licensing instead of outright acquisition will bring many long-term advantages.
Technology analysis expert, Forbes, 2024
With a team of 250 employees and an ARR revenue growth of nearly $100 million in April 2024, Windsurf is one of the hottest AI programming startups attracting giants like OpenAI and Google. Currently, Windsurf continues to develop independently, providing AI tools to enterprise customers.
What is the impact of cryptocurrency startup leaders being recruited by Big Tech?
Google attracting leaders and experts from Windsurf helps enhance its position in the AI programming race, serving the increasing demand of software developers worldwide.
Meanwhile, many startups losing key teams have to change strategies or downsize their business, for example, Scale AI pulling back from the consumer AI sector after partnering with Microsoft. Retaining talented personnel is a crucial survival challenge for small AI companies.
Comparison between licensing cooperation strategy and technology acquisition in AI
Criteria Licensing Cooperation Acquisition of Technology Company Ownership Not owned, retains independence Fully or majority owned Control over technology Only licenses use Full control Personnel team Attract key personnel to their company Accept the entire team Financial risk Lower, gradual investment High risk due to large capital Development capability Easy multi-party cooperation Only internal development
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Google hire the Windsurf leader?
What does Google want to leverage from Windsurf's technology and outstanding personnel to enhance AI programming capabilities for DeepMind?Who still owns Windsurf?
Windsurf maintains its independence, Google does not own shares but only licenses technology.Why couldn't OpenAI acquire Windsurf?
OpenAI was concerned that Microsoft would control Windsurf's proprietary technology if the deal succeeded.What is the impact of startup leaders being attracted by Big Tech?
Startups losing key personnel may face difficulties, while Big Tech enhances AI product development capabilities.How are licensing cooperation and technology acquisition different?
Licensing retains independence for the startup, while acquisition means complete control over technology and personnel.
Source: https://tintucbitcoin.com/google-tuyen-ceo-windsurf-sau-mua-lai-do-vo/
Thank you for reading this article!
Please Like, Comment, and Follow TinTucBitcoin to always stay updated with the latest news about the cryptocurrency market and not miss any important information!
