OpenClaw Creator Chose OpenAI Over Meta's Bigger Paycheck
Peter Steinberger turned down a larger offer from Meta to join OpenAI, citing better alignment with the company's vision.
Money talks, but apparently vibes talk louder. OpenClaw creator Peter Steinberger picked OpenAI over Meta despite Meta putting more cash on the table.
According to sources, Steinberger was weighing both offers less than a week before making his final decision. Meta reportedly came in with the higher bid financially, but it wasn't enough to seal the deal.
Steinberger ultimately felt more aligned with OpenAI's overall vision and culture. It's a notable talent win for OpenAI in an increasingly brutal AI recruiting war where Big Tech companies are throwing enormous sums at top engineers and creators.
For Meta, it's a reminder that compensation alone doesn't always close the hire — especially when candidates are choosing between two AI giants with very different corporate identities and product philosophies.