One of Google’s most influential AI researchers is set to join OpenAI, marking a significant setback for Alphabet in the intensifying race to build the world’s most advanced artificial intelligence systems.
Noam Shazeer, widely regarded as one of the key figures behind the modern AI revolution, announced his departure in a post on X. His move represents a major boost for OpenAI as it continues competing with rivals such as Anthropic to develop increasingly powerful AI models ahead of a potential public listing.
OpenAI Chief Research Officer Mark Chen confirmed that Shazeer will lead the company’s AI architecture research efforts, focusing on the design and development of future AI models. Shazeer said he is excited to join OpenAI and work alongside what he described as an exceptional team.
His exit comes at a crucial time for Google, which remains locked in fierce competition with OpenAI, Anthropic, and other major players in the rapidly evolving AI sector.
Although Google has benefited from growing investor enthusiasm around its AI initiatives, including its Gemini models, custom chips, and consumer products, the company has faced criticism for lagging behind in certain areas, such as AI coding tools for businesses. Former employees have also pointed to internal hurdles that researchers face when trying to access computing resources.
Shazeer is best known for co-authoring the landmark 2017 research paper Attention Is All You Need, which introduced the transformer architecture that powers today’s generative AI systems. During his first stint at Google, which began in 2000, he contributed to several major products, including the company’s spelling correction technology and advertising systems.
In 2021, he left Google to launch Character.AI after becoming frustrated with the company’s pace in bringing generative AI products to market. He returned to Google in 2024 through a licensing agreement that valued Character.AI at approximately $2.5 billion and later helped lead the development of Google’s flagship Gemini AI model.
Responding to the news, a Google spokesperson thanked Shazeer for his contributions over the years and wished him success in his future endeavors.
