Amid mass layoffs, Google's DeepMind AI scientists may leave and start their on startup

In a noteworthy development, two scientists working on major projects at Google DeepMind, the artificial intelligence division of Alphabet, are reportedly in discussions with investors to setup a new AI startup in Paris, as reported by Bloomberg.

Sources familiar with the matter told Bloombrg that Laurent Sifre and Karl Tuyls, both scientists at DeepMind, have engaged in discussions with potential investors to secure funding that could surpass EUR 200 million, a substantial amount even in the thriving field of AI.

While the venture is currently known as Holistic, the scientists have not officially commented on the matter despite multiple requests. A DeepMind representative has declined to provide any insights into the potential startup plans.

Notably, Sifre and Tuyls, who are regarded as leaders in their field, have reportedly given notice to leave DeepMind.

Laurent Sifre gained recognition as a co-author of the groundbreaking 2016 DeepMind research on Go, where a computer system successfully defeated masters of the ancient board game, sparking widespread interest in AI. On the other hand, Karl Tuyls has focused on game theory and multi-agent reinforcement learning within the realm of AI, the Bloomberg report said.

The discussions surrounding the new venture highlight a growing trend of strong investor interest in AI technology, especially in France.

The country has witnessed significant investments from venture capitalists and business leaders, particularly in startups emerging from Parisian universities and AI hubs associated with Silicon Valley companies.

This potential AI startup in Paris follows the formation of Mistral AI, an OpenAI rival, in early 2023. Mistral AI, led by a former DeepMind executive, secured substantial funding rounds and achieved a valuation of around $2 billion by the end of the year.

Additionally, Kyutai, a nonprofit AI research lab, was established in November with an initial funding of EUR 300 million.

It is crucial to note that the discussed French startup, currently named Holistic, is distinct from Holistic AI, an enterprise software business based in London. The sizable financing round being considered further underscores the robust investor interest in advancing AI technology.

(With inputs from agencies)