By Maria Bregman
Mira Murati, the former Chief Technology Officer of OpenAI, has launched a new AI startup named Thinking Machines Lab. The company aims to develop AI systems that are more understandable, customizable, and generally capable. To promote transparency, it plans to regularly publish technical research and code.
Thinking Machines Lab has assembled a team of about 30 leading researchers and engineers from competitors including OpenAI, Meta, and Mistral. Notable team members include John Schulman, a key figure behind ChatGPT, who will serve as Chief Scientist, and Barret Zoph, former OpenAI VP of Research, now Chief Technology Officer.
The startup is reportedly aiming to raise $2 billion in seed funding, which would value the company at “at least” $10 billion. This funding round could be one of the largest in history for a seed-stage company.
Thinking Machines Lab’s mission is to bridge the gap between rapidly advancing AI technologies and the public’s understanding of them. The company plans to focus on building AI models that enhance human-AI collaboration, making AI systems more accessible and adaptable to individual needs.
The startup’s approach emphasizes open science and transparency, setting it apart from other AI companies that often operate in secrecy. By sharing research findings and code, Thinking Machines Lab aims to foster a collaborative environment that accelerates AI development and ensures broader accessibility.
While specific products have not been announced, the company’s focus on customizable and collaborative AI systems suggests potential applications across various industries. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, Thinking Machines Lab’s unique approach positions it as a noteworthy player in the field.
