Microsoft is doubling down on its commitment to artificial intelligence by significantly enhancing the compensation packages for its AI division employees. The tech giant, already known for its substantial investments in AI technologies like OpenAI, is now focusing on ensuring its workforce in this area is well-rewarded. Recent reports reveal that software engineers in Microsoft's AI division are earning an average salary of up to $377,611, a figure that far surpasses the compensation in other departments like Azure and Cloud, where salaries average $120,000 less.

This push to keep AI talent satisfied comes on the heels of Microsoft’s multi-billion dollar deal with OpenAI, which includes making Azure the exclusive cloud provider for OpenAI’s services. The company is also integrating AI capabilities across its products, from Copilot in Office to enhanced AI features in Bing and Edge.

Under the leadership of Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of DeepMind and Inflection, Microsoft is rapidly advancing its AI initiatives. However, the disparity in pay between the AI division and other departments has sparked concerns among employees, potentially impacting morale and performance across the company.