Meta is expanding its global network of energy-efficient data centers to support training large models like LLaMA 3 and powering AI features across its platforms.

This infrastructure and ecosystem development are designed to create a self-reinforcing advantage at scale, enabling AI deployment across billions of users.

The AI talent war is fierce, with startups founded by ex-OpenAI executives reaching significant revenues and valuations, intensifying competition for top researchers.

Meta’s AI expansion aims to bolster its competitive edge, especially in India, where high adoption of AI and strategic investments are driving growth in e-commerce and IT sectors.

The ongoing AI talent race is marked by setbacks and high financial incentives, with industry leaders like Mira Murati declining acquisition offers, emphasizing the high stakes involved.

Meta Platforms has recruited Andrew Tulloch, co-founder of Thinking Machines Lab, with a compensation package estimated at up to $1.5 billion over six years, signaling a major push in its AI talent acquisition efforts.

Tulloch announced his departure to employees on Friday, citing personal reasons, after being approached by Zuckerberg during the summer.

His addition is expected to significantly boost Meta's market share in generative AI, potentially capturing an additional 20%, and advancing Meta's Llama models under Yann LeCun.

This move underscores Meta's strategy to develop advanced AI technologies through its Superintelligence Labs division, focusing on superintelligence, ethical AI, and large language models.

Meta plans to upgrade its Llama models by Q2 2026, introduce new AI features for Indian users on WhatsApp and Instagram, and collaborate with Indian AI startups, leveraging India’s semiconductor initiatives.

Meta’s approach relies on large-scale, patient development, utilizing its vast user base for testing and refining AI systems at scale, with infrastructure investments like energy-efficient data centers.

Tulloch's hiring supports India’s broader AI ecosystem goals, including fostering local innovation, aligning with AI curriculum and job creation plans, and navigating regulatory challenges.

Meta views its infrastructure and talent as competitive moats, aiming to embed AI into everyday products and create a foundational AI ecosystem across hardware, software, and devices.

Public reaction to Tulloch’s recruitment is mixed, with admiration for his expertise but skepticism about the rumored compensation, highlighting high stakes and ethical concerns in AI talent acquisition.

Thinking Machines Lab, which aims to be a public benefit corporation emphasizing ethical AI and broad accessibility, continues to operate under Murati’s leadership despite Tulloch’s departure.

Meta’s AI strategy extends beyond social media, integrating AI into products like Instagram Reels and virtual reality, emphasizing strategic and technological depth.

Meta’s AI approach involves building a comprehensive ecosystem that spans large-scale models like LLaMA to AI-powered consumer devices, aiming for seamless, ambient AI integration.