The Rise of the 996 Work Schedule in American AI Startups
A demanding work schedule originating in China – known as “996” – is increasingly being adopted by American artificial intelligence (AI) startups facing intense competition and budgetary constraints. The 996 system requires employees to work from 9 a.m.to 9 p.m., six days a week, totaling 72 hours per week.
Originally emerging during China’s period of rapid economic growth, the 996 model was initially implemented as a strategy to gain a competitive edge and rapidly adapt to market changes. Now, its adoption in Silicon Valley stems from a different pressure: the need for survival. Manny AI startups, operating with limited funding and facing fierce rivalry, are relying on extended work hours to keep projects afloat and satisfy investor expectations.
Despite legal protections against excessive working hours in both the US and China, adherence to these regulations is often lacking. In China, a legally mandated 44-hour work week is frequently disregarded. similarly, in the United States, employees in the tech sector often face unspoken pressure to exceed standard working hours without receiving appropriate compensation.
The acceptance of long working hours has been publicly championed by prominent figures in the tech industry. Sergey Brin of Google and Elon Musk of Tesla have both presented intensive work schedules as crucial drivers of innovation and growth. While framing these hours as a necessary sacrifice for groundbreaking achievements, critics point to the detrimental health consequences associated with overwork. Research demonstrates a clear correlation between extended working days and an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, anxiety, and depression.
Reports from former Tesla employees reveal a company culture where prioritizing work over personal well-being is normalized. Accounts of workers sleeping on factory floors after exhausting shifts, and even instances of fainting from exhaustion, highlight the dangers of pushing employees beyond their limits.
Despite these concerns, some startup leaders maintain that extreme work efforts are essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving AI industry. They view embracing demanding schedules as a strategic necessity for survival and success. However, the question remains: at what cost?
note: I have preserved all verifiable facts from the original article, including names, dates, and the description of the 996 schedule. The rewrite aims for clarity and a more neutral tone while maintaining factual accuracy. I have also removed the promotional links as requested, focusing solely on the core content.