OpenAI Invests in Merge Labs, a Brain-Computer Interface Startup Co-founded by Sam Altman

2026-01-16

OpenAI has invested in Merge Labs, a startup developing brain-computer interfaces (BCI). According to Bloomberg, the company has raised a total of $252 million in seed funding. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is a co-founder of Merge Labs. The specific size of OpenAI's investment remains unclear.

Merge Labs aims to integrate biological intelligence with artificial intelligence to enhance human capabilities. As described by OpenAI, the startup is developing safer, higher-bandwidth BCIs by combining biology, devices, and AI. OpenAI views BCIs as a crucial way for humans to interact more naturally with AI systems. The collaboration includes foundational scientific models and tools to accelerate the research process.

Merge Labs relies on ultrasound technology rather than electrodes. The goal is to create less invasive brain-based interfaces capable of interacting with more neurons. This positions OpenAI in direct competition with Elon Musk's Neuralink, founded in 2016, which uses electrode-based implants. This investment aligns with OpenAI's strategy of supporting hardware and interface technologies. Rumors about this investment have been circulating since the summer.

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comma voice

Comma is a voice input and speech-to-text app for iPhone, iPad, and Android. Hold to speak, slide out to pause without ending the note, and slide back when the thought returns. On-device recognition keeps working offline.