Merge Labs: The New Brain-Computer Interface Startup Backed by OpenAI

What is Merge Labs?

Merge Labs is a new brain-computer interface (BCI) startup co-founded by Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and Alex Blania, CEO of Tools for Humanity (Worldcoin). The company is designed to directly compete with Elon Musk’s Neuralink, aiming to transform the way humans interact with machines.

Instead of relying solely on traditional input devices like keyboards, mice, or even voice assistants, Merge Labs wants to enable direct communication between the human brain and computers.

Who is Behind Merge Labs?

• Sam Altman – Co-founder, best known as CEO of OpenAI and co-founder of Worldcoin.

• Alex Blania – Co-founder, also leading Worldcoin’s Tools for Humanity.

• OpenAI Ventures – Backing Merge Labs with financial support and strategic alignment.

Though Altman is a co-founder, reports suggest he will not handle day-to-day operations.

Source: Financial Times

What Does Merge Labs Do?

Merge Labs is working on high-bandwidth brain–computer interfaces. These tools let people control digital systems simply by thinking, potentially eliminating the need for external devices.

Key goals include:

• Enhancing human–machine interaction

• Exploring non-invasive approaches to BCI

• Scaling the technology for mass adoption

What is it Used For?

Possible applications of Merge Labs’ BCI technology:

• Medical rehabilitation – Helping patients with paralysis or neurological disorders.

• Productivity tools – Controlling computers, apps, and software with thought alone.

• Education & learning – Faster access to information and skill training.

• Gaming & entertainment – Immersive experiences powered by brain signals.

• Enterprise solutions – Automating workflows, dashboards, and complex tasks hands-free.

Technology Behind Merge Labs

• Brain–computer interface (BCI): Directly interprets neural signals to control digital devices.

• AI-driven processing: Likely powered by OpenAI’s expertise in machine learning.

• Potentially non-invasive methods: Unlike Neuralink’s surgical implants, Merge Labs may use external or semi-invasive techniques to lower risk and broaden adoption.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Backed by OpenAI Ventures and strong leadership.

• Potentially safer, non-invasive methods compared to Neuralink.

• Broad applications from healthcare to enterprise.

• Positioned at the intersection of AI + neurotech.

Cons

• Still in early development; no commercial product yet.

• Ethical and privacy concerns about brain data.

• High cost and technical complexity may slow rollout.

• Competing directly with Neuralink, which already has FDA approval for trials.

Funding and Valuation

• Seeking $250 million in funding

• Estimated valuation: ~$850 million

• Backed by OpenAI Ventures and private investors

Source: Times of AI

Merge Labs vs Neuralink

Why Merge Labs Matters

• Represents the next stage of human–AI interaction.

• Positions Sam Altman in direct rivalry with Elon Musk.

• Pushes the conversation about how far humanity should integrate technology into biology.