Elon Musk’s xAI has introduced a new requirement for its staff: installing productivity tracking software called Hubstaff on all personal computers, even if company devices aren’t in play. The move is designed to keep a closer eye on those contributing to the development of Grok, Musk’s latest chatbot project, and initially set a strict deadline of July 11.
Following staff concerns, xAI eased up by allowing employees to wait for company laptops if needed. An internal HR email described Hubstaff as a tool to help streamline work processes by monitoring URLs, applications, and—even taking screenshots—during working hours. Although it tracks keystrokes and mouse movements and requires workers to clock in and out, the software stops short of monitoring non‐work activity, which has led some to call it “surveillance disguised as productivity.”
Employment attorney David Lowe points out that the legal risks are relatively low provided clear notice is given. The company can defend its use of the software as a necessary step to protect trade secrets and ensure privacy obligations are met, though he does suggest that exploring less intrusive methods could be worthwhile.
This development unfolds as Grok faces heightened scrutiny. After delivering controversial statements, including antisemitic remarks, the chatbot became a focal point for Musk’s push to improve its performance. Despite ongoing issues with misinformation and an overemphasis on climate change threats, Musk has acknowledged the problems—once apologising on X with a simple, “Sorry for this idiotic response”—and promised swift fixes.