OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is putting his support behind a secretive new startup called Merge Labs, which is developing a non-invasive brain–computer interface (BCI) capable of reading human thoughts using sound waves and magnetic fields, without the need for surgery.
Merge Labs would compete with Elon Musk’s Neuralink, which is implanting electrodes directly into the brain.
The company is working with Mikhail Shapiro, a leading engineer from the California Institute of Technology, whose research uses ultrasound and gene therapy to help brain cells send and receive signals.
Merge Labs is seeking funding of about $250 million, which would give the company a valuation of around $850 million.
Most of the money is expected to come from OpenAI’s own venture division and other private investors.
Alex Blania, CEO of Tools for Humanity, will help lead daily operations at Merge Labs.
Neuralink has already raised $650 million at a $9 billion valuation.