Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis has criticised the growing trend of technology companies using artificial intelligence as a reason for workforce reductions, arguing that AI should be used to increase innovation and productivity rather than eliminate jobs.
In a recent interview, Hassabis said several companies appear to have “got AI backwards” by treating productivity gains as an opportunity to reduce headcount. He argued that if AI tools enable engineers to become three or four times more productive, companies should focus on creating more products, conducting more research and pursuing ambitious projects instead of laying off employees.
His remarks come at a time when several major technology firms, including Meta, Amazon and other companies, have announced layoffs while increasing investments in artificial intelligence. Many of these firms have cited efficiency improvements from AI as one of the factors behind workforce restructuring.
Hassabis strongly disagreed with that approach, describing it as a “lack of imagination” and a failure to understand the long-term impact of AI. He suggested that some companies may be overstating the threat of AI-driven job displacement for reasons unrelated to the technology itself, including business or fundraising considerations.
The DeepMind chief also extended an informal invitation to engineers affected by recent layoffs. He said he has “a million ideas” spanning areas such as drug discovery, scientific research and game development, and would welcome talented engineers to work on such projects. According to Hassabis, AI should free up human talent to tackle bigger challenges rather than make skilled workers redundant.
His comments have added to a broader debate within the technology industry about the future of employment in the age of artificial intelligence.
Hassabis maintained that productivity gains from AI should be viewed as a chance to expand ambitions rather than shrink workforces. As AI tools become increasingly capable, he believes companies that invest in innovation and new ideas will be better positioned to benefit from the technology’s long-term potential.
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