OpenAI’s Sam Altman Backs Startup to Rival Musk’s Neuralink
▼ Summary
– Sam Altman is co-founding a brain-to-computer interface startup called Merge Labs, potentially funded by OpenAI’s ventures team, with an expected valuation of $850 million.
– Merge Labs is collaborating with Alex Blania from Tools for Humanity and will compete with Elon Musk’s Neuralink, which develops brain-implanted computer interface chips.
– Neuralink, founded in 2016, is currently trialing its technology with paralyzed individuals to enable device control via thoughts and raised $600 million at a $9 billion valuation in June.
– Both Neuralink and Merge Labs aim to revolutionize human-tech interaction, potentially advancing toward “the singularity,” where AI merges with human intelligence.
– Altman and Musk’s rivalry has intensified, with recent public disputes on X, as Altman moves to challenge Musk’s dominance in brain-computer interface technology.
Sam Altman, the prominent figure behind OpenAI, is reportedly backing a new brain-computer interface startup called Merge Labs, positioning it as a potential competitor to Elon Musk’s Neuralink. According to unnamed sources cited by the Financial Times, the venture could secure significant funding from OpenAI’s investment arm, though discussions remain in early stages. While the startup’s valuation is estimated at $850 million, details are still fluid, and OpenAI has yet to confirm its involvement.
Merge Labs is said to be collaborating with Alex Blania, who leads Tools for Humanity, an Altman-backed project focused on digital identity verification through eye-scanning technology. The startup’s ambitions align with Neuralink’s mission to bridge the gap between human cognition and machines, though it remains unclear whether Merge Labs will pursue invasive brain implants or alternative approaches.
Neuralink, founded by Musk in 2016, has already made strides in developing implantable chips designed to assist individuals with severe paralysis. The company recently raised $600 million in a Series E round, achieving a staggering $9 billion valuation. Its ongoing human trials aim to enable thought-controlled devices, pushing the boundaries of neurotechnology.
The rivalry between Altman and Musk extends beyond business into the philosophical realm of “the singularity”, a hypothetical point where artificial intelligence surpasses human intelligence, or where humans and technology merge. Musk has frequently referenced the concept, while Altman explored similar ideas in a 2017 blog post, predicting that humanity would soon design its own evolutionary successors.
Tensions between the two tech leaders have escalated publicly, with recent exchanges on X (formerly Twitter) devolving into accusations of dishonesty and manipulation. Musk departed OpenAI in 2018, and their relationship has since soured, adding a personal dimension to their professional competition.
As the race to redefine human-machine interaction heats up, Merge Labs could emerge as a formidable challenger to Neuralink. For now, the startup’s official launch and strategic direction remain under wraps, leaving industry watchers to speculate on how this new venture might reshape the future of neurotechnology. OpenAI declined to comment on the reports.
(Source: TechCrunch)
