In the high-stakes arena of artificial intelligence, big tech companies are rewriting the playbook on talent acquisition. Heavyweights like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon are cleverly boosting their AI capabilities without setting off antitrust alarms—by acquiring the brains and tech of AI startups without formally buying the companies.

A recent example of this tactic came when Google struck a deal with Character.ai, bringing on its high-profile founder along with over 20% of the company’s staff, and securing a license for its technology. It looks like an acquisition, sounds like an acquisition, but technically, it isn’t one.

Google isn’t the only player using this creative approach. Microsoft led the charge with a similar arrangement involving Inflection, and Amazon quickly followed suit with its pseudo-acquisition of Adept. These deals have become a new strategic weapon for tech giants, allowing them to bypass regulatory scrutiny while still scooping up the talent and cutting-edge tech that keeps them competitive in the fierce AI race.

For AI startups, which often struggle to monetize their innovations, these deals offer a crucial opportunity—a chance to thrive under the umbrella of a tech giant. Meanwhile, these companies get to hand-pick the brightest minds and most innovative technologies without the legal headaches that accompany traditional acquisitions.

However, this cunning strategy comes with its own set of risks. While tech companies might believe they’re sidestepping antitrust watchdogs, they could be treading dangerous ground. As these quasi-acquisitions become more common, they’re likely to draw closer scrutiny from regulators determined to keep the tech landscape fair and competitive.

As the AI revolution accelerates, one thing is certain: the battle for talent and technology is intensifying, and tech’s biggest players are willing to do whatever it takes to stay ahead of the competition—and the regulators.