This explains why Google pays some of its workers to do nothing.

Smarter AI tools are being released by IT companies almost daily. For example, Google just unveiled its most “advanced” Gemini 2.5 Pro, OpenAI unveiled a new default picture generating tool for GPT-4o, and Meta recently unveiled Lama 4. The rush to recruit the top AI talent intensifies in tandem with the competition for better models. Google is paying some of its employees for doing nothing, which is an unprecedented move in the midst of this crunch. This is neither a reward nor a vacation.

These workers are bound by what is referred to as a noncompete clause. This implies that for a predetermined period of time after leaving Google, they are prohibited from joining a competitor. This waiting period can extend up to a year in certain situations. Additionally, Google DeepMind pays them even if they are prohibited from working elsewhere. This information was initially reported by Business Insider.

We are aware of your thoughts. Making money without working sounds like a dream come true. However, this could significantly affect the career of many AI experts. Being on the sidelines can feel like falling behind with all that is occurring in AI every week.

Former DeepMind executive and Microsoft AI vice president Nando de Freitas raised awareness of this problem. He said in a March 26, 2025, post on X (previously Twitter) that DeepMind staff members frequently ask him how they may get out of these commitments. Some even approach him for jobs because they believe it is the only way to advance. “Most importantly, avoid signing these contracts,” he stated in the post. “That kind of power should not belong to any American corporation, particularly in Europe.” The misuse of authority does not excuse any goal.

DeepMind is headquartered in the UK, where these contracts are reportedly very difficult. UK law permits noncompetes as long as they are deemed equitable for both parties, in contrast to California, where such agreements are prohibited. According to Business Insider, DeepMind stated that it only employs these contracts when necessary, particularly to safeguard sensitive or significant projects.

However, a lot of people in the AI community believe that the contracts are very expansive. It can be challenging to catch up after a six- or twelve-month break because the subject is developing so quickly. Additionally, AI professionals do not want to wait around as huge organizations like Microsoft and OpenAI grow and intriguing new firms appear. Business Insider was told by a former DeepMind employee, “Who wants to sign you for starting in a year?” “In AI, that is forever.”

Emily John

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