Scale AI, a prominent data-labeling start-up, has affirmed its continued independence from Meta Platforms, even after the social media giant acquired a 49 percent stake through a substantial US$14.3 billion investment just weeks prior. Interim Chief Executive Officer Jason Droege, who assumed the role in mid-June, emphasized in one of his initial interviews that Meta, a customer of Scale AI since 2019, will not be afforded any special treatment or preferential access. Droege stated unequivocally that Meta's relationship with Scale AI remains strictly that of a customer, subject to the same support as all other clients.

This significant development follows the departure of Scale AI's 28-year-old former CEO and co-founder, Alexandr Wang. Wang left the start-up to spearhead a new superintelligence unit at Meta, a move that is part of Facebook parent company's multi-billion-dollar initiative to accelerate its advancements in AI development. Despite his transition to Meta, Wang will retain his seat on Scale AI's board of directors. However, Droege confirmed that Meta Platforms will not receive any additional board representation.

Furthermore, Droege reiterated Scale AI's unwavering commitment to its existing customer data privacy rules and governance framework, assuring that these policies remain unchanged. He specifically noted that the board does not have access to internal customer-specific data, reinforcing the company's dedication to data security and client confidentiality. While Wang's move represents a significant leadership change, Droege indicated that only a small number, less than a dozen, of Scale AI's approximately 1,500 employees opted to join Wang at Meta, underscoring the stability within the start-up's workforce.