OpenAI has participated in the seed funding round of Merge Labs, a research-focused company developing advanced brain–computer interface (BCI) technologies designed to enable more direct interaction between humans and artificial intelligence.
The company believes such interfaces could significantly reshape how people communicate with digital systems. Merge Labs has raised a total of $252 million so far, reaching a valuation of $850 million, with backing from Bain Capital, Valve co-founder Gabe Newell, and several other investors.
In a blog post, OpenAI said progress in computing has historically been driven by improvements in interfaces, positioning BCIs as a major next step for communication, learning, and human–technology interaction. The company views neural interfaces as a long-term opportunity rather than a short-term product play.
OpenAI Bets on Brain-Computer Interfaces as the Next Frontier in Human–AI Interaction
Merge Labs is working to safely connect with the human brain at higher bandwidth by combining biology, specialised hardware, and artificial intelligence. Its long-term mission is to bridge biological and artificial intelligence in ways that expand human capabilities while maintaining individual agency and safety.
The investment also places OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman on a competitive path with Elon Musk’s Neuralink, which is developing implantable brain chips that allow people with severe paralysis to control digital devices using thought alone. Neuralink secured $650 million in funding last year at a $9 billion valuation from a group of prominent venture capital firms.
According to OpenAI, AI will play a central role in Merge Labs’ research, supporting work across neuroscience, bioengineering, and device engineering. AI systems are expected to interpret user intent, adapt to individual neural patterns, and function reliably despite limited and noisy brain signals.
OpenAI noted that high-bandwidth neural interfaces will depend on intelligent operating systems capable of learning from users and maintaining accuracy under complex biological conditions. As part of the collaboration, OpenAI plans to work with Merge Labs on scientific foundation models and other advanced tools to accelerate the development of BCI technologies.
Merge Labs was co-founded by researchers Mikhail Shapiro, Tyson Aflalo, and Sumner Norman, all of whom have previously worked on novel approaches to brain–computer interfaces. The founding team also includes technology entrepreneurs Alex Blania, Sandro Herbig, and Sam Altman, who is involved in a personal capacity.
Blania, who also leads Tools for Humanity, the company behind the digital identity project World, will continue in his existing role. Sandro Herbig serves as president and leads product and engineering initiatives.
OpenAI said it looks forward to supporting Merge Labs as it works to turn ambitious scientific ideas into practical technologies that could eventually deliver real benefits for people.
