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OpenAI invests in Sam Altman’s brain computer interface startup Merge Labs

January 15, 2026

Rebecca Bellan

TechCrunch

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**Exploring the Future: OpenAI's Investment in Merge Labs** In a significant move, OpenAI has decided to invest in Merge Labs, a startup founded by Sam Altman that focuses on brain-computer interfaces. This investment is part of a larger $250 million seed round, which values Merge Labs at an impressive $850 million. This partnership signals a strong belief in the potential of combining human intelligence with artificial intelligence. **What is Merge Labs?** Merge Labs is described as a research lab. Its mission is to bridge the gap between biological intelligence and artificial intelligence. The goal is to enhance human capabilities in various ways. By developing better interfaces for brain communication, Merge Labs hopes to open up new possibilities for human enhancement. This could lead to improvements in personal productivity, learning speeds, or even ways to overcome certain disabilities. **Why This Investment Matters** Investments like this highlight the growing interest in the field of brain-computer interfaces. These technologies have the power to change how we interact with the world. OpenAI's backing of Merge Labs signals confidence in the ability of these technologies to

Merge Labs is a “research lab” dedicated to “bridging biological and artificial intelligence to maximize human ability.” OpenAI wrote the largest check in Merge Labs' $250 million seed round at an $850 million valuation.

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