**OpenAI Invests in Brain-Computer Interface Startup Merge Labs, Founded by Sam Altman**
You might have heard of Elon Musk’s Neuralink, the brain-computer interface startup aiming to merge human and artificial intelligence. Now, OpenAI, the company co-founded by Sam Altman, is taking a similar approach with its latest investment in Merge Labs, a startup that’s actually tackling the same problem – but with a different approach.
**$252 Million in Funding and a Non-Invasive Twist**
Merge Labs just scored a whopping $252 million from OpenAI, private investment firm Bain Capital, and online game developer Gabe Newell. The company plans to use ultrasound technology to develop a non-invasive interface that can read and modulate the brain.
The idea of “the merge” – a hypothetical point where humans and machines blend to create a new consciousness – has been talked about in the tech world for years. Sam Altman, who’s also a co-founder of OpenAI, has written about this concept before and has invested in Neuralink. But Merge Labs is taking a different route.
**No Implants Needed**
Unlike Neuralink, which plans to implant its technology directly into the brain, Merge Labs is opting for a non-invasive approach. They’re using molecules and ultrasound technology to connect with neurons, creating an interface that’s “equal parts biology, machine, and AI.” This method is designed to be more accessible and user-friendly than implantable devices.
**Artificial Intelligence is Key**
Artificial intelligence will play a significant role in Merge Labs’ approach. The company will use high-bandwidth interfaces that rely on AI to interpret human intent, adapt to the brain, and function reliably even with imperfect signals. To speed up progress, OpenAI will collaborate with Merge Labs on scientific basis models and frontier tools.
**Another Player in the Field**
Merge Labs isn’t the only brain-computer interface startup in the game. Synchron, another company, is working with Nvidia to develop basis models for the brain. The goal is to create interfaces that are more intuitive and have a wider range of skills. While current brain-computer interfaces can help paralyzed individuals perform basic tasks, AI-powered interfaces could potentially perform more complex tasks in the future.
**A New Entity with a Proven Track Record**
Merge Labs is a spin-off of nonprofit Forest Neurotech, a research organization based in Los Angeles. The company’s founders, including Sam Altman and Mikhail Shapiro, are also affiliated with Forest, which will continue to operate as a nonprofit entity while collaborating with Merge.
While Merge Labs hasn’t revealed its initial goals, Forest’s focus on mental health issues and brain damage provides some clues about the company’s direction. Forest has already developed a miniaturized ultrasound machine that’s being studied in an early safety trial in the UK.
**The Future of Brain-Computer Interfaces**
With this new investment, Merge Labs is ready to take on the challenge of connecting humans and machines. The company is actively hiring for various positions, and we can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve.
Read the original article on Wired.com for more information: [Source link](https://www.wired.com/story/openai-invests-in-sam-altmans-new-brain-tech-startup-merge-labs/).
