Google is offering pay to AI engineers for doing nothing - find out the unexpected reason behind it.

Google is reportedly using an unusual strategy to secure its position in the AI race, compensating certain AI engineers to stay idle for up to a year to keep them from joining rivals such as Open AI and Microsoft.

Business Insider reveals that Deep Mind, Google's AI division, has enforced extended non compete clauses for select UK employees, placing them on 'garden leave' for up to 12 months, where they are paid but unable to work for competing companies.

While non compete clauses aren't unusual in the tech industry, the way DeepMind enforces them—especially for those involved in high-profile projects like Gemini AI—has drawn scrutiny, with durations reaching up to a year for some.Controversy has emerged in the tech sector over the practice. Nando de Freitas, a former DeepMind executive and current Vice President at Microsoft AI, addressed the topic on social media.

Amid growing criticism, Google insists its hiring practices conform to industry norms, explaining that non compete clauses are used judiciously to shield critical business interests, especially in relation to confidential projects.

Google’s approach highlights the fierce battle among tech giants to attract elite AI talent. OpenAI, for example, has reportedly dangled compensation deals between $5 million and $10 million to poach AI specialists from firms like Google.This bold approach to talent retention reflects the urgent demand for AI specialists, far outstripping supply. By paying top minds to stay put, companies hope to keep their advantage in the fast-moving AI arena.

Google’s tactic of paying AI engineers during lengthy non compete periods shows just how far tech firms are willing to go to hold onto elite talent. While it limits the risk of intellectual property reaching competitors, it also sparks debate about worker freedom and its potential impact on AI innovation.