A growing number of AI startups in Silicon Valley are reportedly encouraging—or pressuring—their employees to embrace the controversial “996” work schedule, a practice originating in China that involves working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week.
While the 996 model has been officially outlawed in China due to its extreme demands and impact on workers’ health and well-being, some U.S. startups view it as a way to accelerate innovation and maintain competitiveness in the fast-paced AI race.
This adoption has sparked debate within Silicon Valley about work-life balance, labor rights, and the sustainability of such intense schedules. Critics warn that enforcing 996-style hours could lead to burnout, reduce productivity over time, and tarnish company reputations in a region that traditionally values employee well-being and innovation culture.
Proponents argue that the demanding schedule is a temporary necessity to meet aggressive deadlines and stay ahead in a hypercompetitive field, especially given the enormous pressure from global rivals and investors.
As AI development accelerates, the controversy around adopting 996 practices highlights the tension between ambitious growth targets and maintaining healthy workplace environments in the technology sector.
