Meta Snatches Apple’s Head of AI

Meta has recruited Ruoming Pang, a key executive behind Apple’s foundational AI models, in a move that underscores the intensifying battle for artificial intelligence leadership. Pang, who played a critical role in shaping Apple’s core AI infrastructure, will now join Meta’s newly launched “Superintelligence” division. The reported compensation is a staggering multi-million dollar package said to be worth tens of millions annually.

This move adds to a growing list of high-profile hires by Meta, as it aggressively expands its AI talent pool:

• Alexandr Wang, CEO of Scale AI, recently linked with Meta’s advisory efforts.

• Daniel Gross, co-founder of AI-focused startup Cue and former Apple AI lead.

• Nat Friedman, ex-GitHub CEO and investor in several frontier AI companies.

Insider sources indicate that Meta has been offering massive financial incentives reportedly amounting up to $100 million to attract researchers and engineers from competitors, including OpenAI.

Ruoming Pang’s departure is especially notable for Apple, which traditionally maintains a tight grip on its internal teams. Pang led the team developing Apple’s foundational AI models and was critical to the powering of on-device intelligence and Siri-related upgrades. His exit could impact Apple’s ongoing efforts to close the perceived gap in generative AI and compete with rivals like OpenAI, Google DeepMind, and Meta itself.

Meta’s “Superintelligence” division, launched quietly in early 2025, is reportedly focused on building Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). The team is said to operate semi-independently within the company, reporting directly to senior Meta leadership. With new hires being drawn from top AI labs and tech giants, it reflects Meta’s deepening commitment to long-term AI dominance.

As the AI arms race accelerates, more high-stakes talent moves are expected across Silicon

KINI BIG DEAL (Why Does this matter)

When giants shift, everyone feels the tremor. Meta’s open-source and aggressive AI agenda could mean more tools, access, and opportunities for developers, researchers, and startups across Africa.

This is our time to plug in, stay sharp, and build with the future in mind.