Amazon is consolidating its artificial general intelligence efforts under a newly formed division, a move signaling a significant strategic shift as the tech giant aims to accelerate its AI development and better compete in a rapidly evolving landscape. This restructuring follows the departure of Rohit Prasad, a key executive who led Amazon’s AGI unit, at the close of the year.
The expanded division will now encompass Amazon’s AGI initiatives alongside its custom silicon development and quantum computing teams. Peter DeSantis, a seasoned Amazonian with a 27-year tenure, will spearhead this new, integrated unit. DeSantis, previously a senior vice president within Amazon Web Services (AWS), brings extensive experience in cloud infrastructure and chip design, positioning him to foster a unified approach to these critical technological frontiers.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy articulated in a company-wide communication that this reorganization is predicated on the belief that the company has reached an “inflection point” in AI development. This strategic realignment appears to be a direct response to competitive pressures from rivals like OpenAI and Google, both of whom have made substantial strides in generative AI and large language models. Amazon has been actively working to counter the perception of lagging in this space, evidenced by the introduction of its own foundation models, Nova, and the development of custom AI chips, such as Trainium, designed to rival Nvidia’s dominant offerings.
“With the foundation that’s been built, the traction we’re seeing, and Peter’s leadership bringing unified focus to these technologies, we’re well-positioned to lead and deliver meaningful capabilities for our customers,” Jassy stated. “I’m excited about what this team will build and how these foundational technologies will help shape Amazon’s future.” DeSantis will report directly to Jassy, underscoring the strategic importance of this newly formed division.
Further strengthening the AI research capabilities, Amazon is bringing on board Pieter Abbeel to lead its frontier model research team within the AGI group. Abbeel, a distinguished AI researcher, joined Amazon in 2024 following the company’s acquisition of the robotics startup Covariant.
DeSantis’s career at Amazon began in 1998, where he played an integral role in the nascent stages of AWS. His progression through various leadership roles culminated in his appointment as SVP in 2016. For the past four years, he has overseen the AWS computing product teams, managing a broad portfolio that includes compute, storage, database, security, and the crucial custom chip development initiatives.
Prasad, who joined Amazon in 2013, initially served as the head scientist for Alexa. In August, he was tasked with spearheading the company’s ambitious AGI development efforts. Jassy acknowledged Prasad’s significant contributions, describing him as “missionary, passionate, and selfless,” and expressing gratitude for his leadership, technical foresight, and the innovations he has fostered within the company.
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