A New Chapter in AI Innovation
Mira Murati, the former CTO of OpenAI, has announced a startup called Thinking Machines Lab. Based in San Francisco, the startup aims to democratize AI by making it more accessible, customizable, and capable. The launch of this ambitious project intends to close the very big gap of rapid AI development versus understanding by a common man . And the same was kick started by Murati’s exit from OpenAI in September 2024.
Building a Dream Team
From OpenAI, Google, and Meta, the Thinking Machines Lab has recruited the best talent. John Schulman, co-founder of OpenAI and one of the key figures behind ChatGPT, joined as Chief Scientist. Furthermore, Barret Zoph, who previously worked for OpenAI, is the Chief Technology Officer. And, of course, experts from Mistral AI complete the roster, all trying to get together ideas to enhance interaction between humans and AI.
Embracing Open Science
Thinking Machines Lab is committed to an open-science agenda in an environment that does not open itself up too easily to public scrutiny. The firm intends to publish technical notes, research papers, and code regularly. While also providing an environment that allows the AI community to collaborate together. The desired outcome is to foster a culture of research where the development of technology is a product of synergy rather than lock up.
Focus on Human-AI Collaboration
Thinking Machines Lab aims to develop AI systems that collaborate with humans, enhancing multimodal interactions across various skill sets. Instead of pursuing full autonomy, the startup focuses on AI applications that transcend industries and fields. All in all, this approach shifts the narrative from AI replacing humans to AI empowering them.
A Mission to Democratize AI
The vision of Murati is to make cutting-edge AI comprehensible to and useful for a larger audience. Through its focus on powerful foundational models and commitment to open science, the startup will ensure everyone and every organization have the tools at hand. To customize AI systems according to their needs.
Moreover, it is further blessed by this vision so that the advancement of AI is there to benefit mankind in general rather than a select few.
Where the Startup Stands Now
- In July 2025, Thinking Machines Lab raised $2 billion seed funding at a $12 billion valuation. Which is one of the largest in history.
- It has got backing from Andreessen Horowitz, Nvidia, Cisco, Thrive Capital, and Sequoia.
- Murati has built her dream team. With John Schulman (Chief Scientist), Barret Zoph (CTO), plus talent from OpenAI, Google, Meta, and Mistral AI.
- There are some reports that say some hires turned down a $1 billion Meta offer to join her team.
- Engineers are among the highest-paid in AI, with salaries up to $500K.
- Their first product launch expected in late 2025, centered on multimodal, customizable AI.
