On the day before the launch of its latest artificial intelligence (AI) model, GPT-5, OpenAI distributed special bonuses amounting to millions of dollars to its employees, according to a report by IT-focused media outlet The Verge on the 12th (local time).
This bonus targets approximately 1,000 research and development staff, equating to about one-third of the entire workforce. The amount varies according to role and position, with researchers dedicated to GPT-5 development reportedly receiving up to several million dollars. Recipients can choose to receive their bonus in cash or OpenAI stock, with payments distributed quarterly over the next two years.
Sam Altman, the CEO, expressed his gratitude for the employees’ excellent efforts toward building Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) via the company’s internal messenger, Slack, on the 7th. He noted that OpenAI has been reviewing its compensation structure for technical teams to align with market trends, adding, “We plan to continue increasing compensation as we demonstrate ongoing improvement as a company.”
In the industry, although OpenAI’s bonuses are ostensibly for the GPT-5 launch, they are seen as a strategy to retain key personnel amid fierce competition for AI talent. Meta has established a “Superintelligence Research Lab” and is investing heavily to recruit a significant number of AI experts, including over ten former OpenAI researchers.