Microsoft Reassigns Parts of Chinese AI Teams Overseas

Reports surfaced on May 15 that several artificial intelligence (AI) teams within Microsoft's Chinese division are being relocated to the United States and Australia. The rumor mill suggests that Microsoft will assist employees and their families with visa applications, with the potential for hundreds of staff members to be affected

Reports surfaced on May 15 that several artificial intelligence (AI) teams within Microsoft's Chinese division are being relocated to the United States and Australia. The rumor mill suggests that Microsoft will assist employees and their families with visa applications, with the potential for hundreds of staff members to be affected. Employees unwilling to relocate may be eligible for severance packages.

Microsoft's Chinese division confirmed the news to Netease Tech, stating that a limited number of employees have been given the opportunity to work on international assignments. Employees can choose to accept the reassignment or remain in their current roles.

Netease Tech has learned that the affected AI teams belong to Microsoft's Asia-Pacific Research and Development (R&D) Group.

Established on January 18, 2006, Microsoft's Asia-Pacific R&D Group is the company's largest and most comprehensive R&D base outside the United States.

The group's threefold mission is to:

• Serve as a global hub for Microsoft's basic research, technological innovation, and product development

• Collaborate with regional industries to cultivate tech innovators with global perspectives and experience in managing large-scale projects

• Conduct localized R&D tailored to emerging market demands and promote the deployment of technologies and products to other regions

Microsoft's Asia-Pacific R&D Group currently employs over 3,000 scientists and engineers across Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Taipei, Tokyo, Seoul, Sydney, and Bangkok.