Open AI Sam Altman predicts brain implants will lead to humans and tech merging.
The rivalry between Sam Altman and Elon Musk is about to get weirder.
Until now, the two have been fighting over whose company has the most advanced AI models. But soon, they could be battling to prove who makes the best brain chip implants.
The Financial Times reported, citing unnamed sources, that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is working on co-founding a new brain chip startup called Merge Labs. The company will develop what is known as a brain-computer interface (BCI). BCIs work by implanting tiny electrodes that can read neural signals in or near the brain. The primary goal of these devices is to allow humans to control digital devices with their thoughts.
Merge Labs is reportedly raising funds at a valuation of $850 million, with most of the funding expected to come from OpenAI’s Startup Fund, according to the Financial Times. Altman will help launch the company alongside Alex Blania, head of World ID, an eyeball-scanning digital ID startup also backed by OpenAI.
