OpenAI announces week‑long shutdown to combat burnout and talent poaching

CHENNAI: OpenAI has initiated an unusual, company-wide shutdown for one full week beginning early July, citing severe employee burnout as the primary reason. According to several reports, teams have been averaging 80-hour workweeks, pushing leadership to mandate this break for staff wellbeing However, the timing of the shutdown has sparked speculation. Some experts argue that it serves a dual purpose — not only as a wellness break but also as a strategic buffer in the escalating AI talent war with Meta.