OpenAI has participated in a significant seed funding round for Merge Labs, a brain-computer interface (BCI) startup co-founded by Sam Altman, who also serves as OpenAI’s CEO. The funding round, which raised $252 million, values Merge Labs at approximately $850 million. Merge Labs focuses on developing non-invasive BCIs, utilizing molecular neuron interfacing and ultrasound data transmission, rather than the conventional method of implanted electrodes.
The company’s groundbreaking technology aims to address both medical and consumer applications, though it acknowledges that meaningful advancements in this field may take years, if not decades. The BCI market holds an estimated potential of $400 billion in the US, predominantly for medical purposes.
OpenAI’s investment in Merge Labs represents a strategic move to foster collaboration between AI technologies and BCI development. This synergy could accelerate progress by leveraging AI foundation models, creating a feedback loop where successful BCI technology increases user engagement with OpenAI’s software.
However, this partnership also brings up potential conflicts of interest. Questions arise regarding the use of OpenAI resources to enhance the value of Altman’s personal venture, especially as OpenAI anticipates significant financial challenges ahead, with projected operating losses of $74 billion by 2028 and infrastructure commitments reaching $1.4 trillion.
The partnership not only highlights the innovative drive towards developing new interfacing technologies but also underscores the complex dynamics at play within the high-tech investment landscape.

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OpenAI participated in a $252M seed round for Merge Labs, a brain-computer interface startup co-founded by Sam Altman, valuing the company at $850M. Merge Labs develops non-invasive BCIs using molecular neuron interfacing and ultrasound instead of implanted electrodes, targeting a potential $400B US market. The investment creates strategic synergy between AI and BCI development but raises conflict-of-interest concerns given Altman's dual roles and OpenAI's projected $74B operating losses by 2028.

OpenAI Invests in Merge Labs to Advance Non-Invasive Brain-Computer Interfaces