Microsoft plans to open AI hub in London, marking a significant victory for UK in competition for AI expertise.
Microsoft has revealed its intentions to establish a new artificial intelligence (AI) hub in London, with a primary focus on product development and research.
The unit is headed by Mustafa Suleyman, the London-born founder of Google DeepMind who was hired by Microsoft last month.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT
As the primary supporter of ChatGPT manufacturer OpenAI, Microsoft is the world’s leading manufacturer of rapidly developing technology.
But the race for AI talent has intensified across Europe over the past 18 months. Microsoft may seek to recruit experts from other AI-focused companies to staff its new unit, such as DeepMind or OpenAI.
The move also marks a win for Britain, which has sought to cement its hold as a tech superpower since hosting the world’s first global AI security summit in November.
CONTEXT
Last month, Microsoft hired DeepMind founder Suleyman to lead its internal Microsoft AI division.
Suleyman left his own fledgling company, Inflection AI, to join Microsoft, taking dozens of staff with him.
The move drew criticism in some quarters, as the personnel move meant Microsoft avoided the regulatory scrutiny that usually accompanies a traditional acquisition.
BY THE NUMBERS
While it remains unclear how many jobs the new center will create, the announcement follows Microsoft’s recent commitment to invest £2.5 billion ($3.16 billion) in data center infrastructure and improving AI skills across Britain.
KEY QUOTE
“I know – from working closely with thought leaders in UK government, business and academia – that the country is committed to promoting AI responsibly and with safety first to drive investment, innovation and economic growth,” Suleyman wrote. company blog post published on Monday.
“Our decision to open this center in the UK reflects this ambition.”
