In a bold move that could reshape the artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, Mark Zuckerberg has begun assembling a secret team within Meta dedicated to developing the long-sought artificial general intelligence (AGI)  AI capable of matching or exceeding human intelligence. According to Bloomberg and Reuters, the initiative involves around 50 handpicked researchers and engineers, personally selected by Meta’s CEO during gatherings in places like Lake Tahoe and Palo Alto.

One of the most curious elements: a WhatsApp group internally named “Recruiting Party,” created by Zuckerberg himself to coordinate real-time talent acquisition. This effort stems from internal frustration over the performance of Meta’s Llama 4 model and delays in launching the more advanced “Behemoth” model. It also sends a clear message: Meta intends to leap ahead of competitors like OpenAI and Google.

The strategy goes far beyond recruitment. Meta is currently in talks to invest over $10 billion USD in Scale AI, the data-labeling startup founded by Alexandr Wang, who may join the AGI initiative. If the deal goes through  potentially the largest private investment ever made in a startup  Meta would combine its financial power with top-tier technical expertise in the AI field.

This approach aligns with Meta’s 2025 capital expenditure plans, estimated between $60 and $65 billion USD, aimed at boosting infrastructure (notably Nvidia-powered data centers) and accelerating AI development for generative tools and targeted advertising.

Zuckerberg’s ultimate goal is clear: to push AGI further than any other competitor. As he stated, Meta “can and should surpass other tech companies in achieving” this new frontier. His ambition is not only technical but strategic to integrate AGI into consumer-facing products like WhatsApp, Instagram, AI-powered Ray-Ban glasses, and Meta’s upcoming chatbot platform.

Still, the path is not without challenges. The AI community is facing growing concerns: while models are becoming more complex, they remain far from mastering broad human-like abilities. Meta must balance speed, ethics, and safety  all while addressing increasing regulatory scrutiny and public expectations.

In conclusion, Zuckerberg is going all in. With a secretive team, a massive investment plan, and the determination to outpace tech giants, Meta is aiming to redefine the future of artificial intelligence and its role in the world.