Meta Acquires 49% Stake in Scale AI as CEO Alexandr Wang Joins

Meta has made a strategic $14.3 to $15 billion investment to acquire a 49% stake in Scale AI, a leading AI infrastructure and data-labeling startup founded by 28-year-old Alexandr Wang. Wang, who built Scale AI into a critical player serving clients like OpenAI, Microsoft, and government agencies, has stepped down as CEO to join Meta and lead its new SuperIntelligence Lab, reflecting Meta's aggressive push to advance artificial superintelligence and compete with rivals like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. This move underscores Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's commitment to revitalizing the company's AI ambitions amid internal challenges and lukewarm responses to prior AI models. Despite Wang's departure from operational leadership at Scale AI, he remains on its board, ensuring continuity while a new CEO takes over. Meta's investment also secures significant influence over Scale AI's data resources and talent, crucial for developing next-generation AI systems. This partnership marks a pivotal moment in the AI industry, as Meta seeks to accelerate innovation and strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.