News Summary

Silicon Valley AI startups are increasingly adopting the 996 work schedule, a model originating from mainland China that requires employees to work from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week, totaling 72 hours per week. This demanding schedule has been criticized in China for promoting modern slavery and has led to protests and worker deaths. Despite these concerns, the 996 schedule is gaining traction in the US, particularly among AI startups that are eager to accelerate their growth and compete on a global scale. Companies like Rilla, which develops AI software for contractors, have embraced the 996 framework as part of their corporate culture, with job listings explicitly stating the expectation for employees to work more than 70 hours a week. While proponents argue that such dedication is necessary for startup success, critics caution against imposing such demands on rank-and-file employees, suggesting it may only be suitable for company leaders.