Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, has reportedly urged employees working on artificial intelligence (AI) at the company to put in at least 60 hours per week as Google accelerates its efforts in the AI race. This push comes amid growing competition from OpenAI, Microsoft, and other major tech firms striving for dominance in the AI sector.

Brin’s Push for Longer Work Hours

According to a report from The Information, Brin recently met with employees at Google DeepMind, the company’s AI research division, and emphasized the need for increased dedication. He reportedly suggested that those working on Google’s AI initiatives should be putting in extended hours to help push the boundaries of innovation and keep up with rivals.

Google has been heavily investing in AI, particularly with the Gemini model series, aiming to compete with OpenAI’s GPT models and other advancements in the field. Brin’s remarks indicate that the company is placing high stakes on AI development, urging employees to contribute more time and effort to accelerate progress.

Why Is Google Increasing the Pressure?

The AI industry has become one of the most competitive sectors in tech, with companies racing to develop cutting-edge models capable of revolutionizing industries. Google, which was once considered a leader in AI research, has recently faced tough competition from OpenAI and Microsoft, which have made significant strides with models like ChatGPT and Copilot.

Brin’s return to an active role at Google, especially in AI, highlights the urgency within the company to close the gap and solidify its position as a top player in artificial intelligence.

Concerns Over Work-Life Balance

While long hours in Silicon Valley are not uncommon—especially in high-stakes projects—Brin’s remarks have sparked discussions about work-life balance and burnout. The tech industry has faced growing scrutiny over demanding work cultures, particularly in AI, where researchers and engineers often work under high-pressure conditions.

Critics argue that sustained overwork could lead to employee burnout, reduced productivity, and long-term negative effects on innovation. On the other hand, supporters believe that such dedication is necessary for breakthroughs in AI, a field that requires continuous learning, experimentation, and adaptation.

What This Means for Google’s AI Future

With Brin taking an active role in AI development, Google is signaling its commitment to leading the next wave of AI advancements. The company’s Gemini models are expected to evolve rapidly, and competition is only set to intensify.

While there is no official company-wide mandate enforcing a 60-hour workweek, Brin’s comments may indicate a cultural shift at Google DeepMind—one that prioritizes AI development at an accelerated pace.

As Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, and other companies compete for AI dominance, the coming months will reveal whether this intensified effort translates into major breakthroughs—or whether it risks pushing employees too hard.