Google paid an employee 300% hike to stop him from joining AI startup Perplexity

• Google offered a significant salary increase to an employee: The employee was part of the search team, not directly involved with AI, but considered crucial by Google.
• The purpose was to retain the employee: They were considering joining Perplexity AI, a startup led by Aravind Srinivas.
• The raise was substantial: It amounted to a 300% increase, highlighting Google's efforts to keep key talent.
• The news highlights the competitive tech landscape: Companies like Google are willing to go to great lengths to retain employees, especially in critical fields like AI.
• There are mixed reactions: Some see it as a positive sign of Google's commitment to its workforce, while others question the sustainability and fairness of such practices.

It's important to note that this is just one specific example, and the bigger picture of employee retention and talent wars in the tech industry is complex and multifaceted.