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Mira Murati Launches Thinking Machines Lab to Innovate Customizable AI Solutions

STARTUPS

VENTURE-OS
Written by: VENTURE-OS
8 April 2025

Mira Murati, former CTO of OpenAI, has recently unveiled her new venture, Thinking Machines Lab, which aims to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence by creating tools that cater to individual user needs and values. With a vision to bridge the existing gaps in AI technology, the startup has attracted significant attention and talent from the competitive AI landscape.

Thinking Machines Lab is focused on developing AI systems that are not only advanced but also more understandable and customizable. In a recent blog post, the company highlighted that while AI capabilities have grown exponentially, there remains a substantial lag in understanding these systems among the broader scientific community. This lack of transparency limits public discourse on AI and hinders effective utilization in various sectors.

The startup’s mission is to build “multimodal” AI systems that facilitate collaborative interactions between humans and machines. According to Murati, the aim is to create AI that seamlessly adapts to a wide range of user expertise, unlocking new applications in fields like science and programming. The company plans to develop models that can lead to significant breakthroughs, such as advancements in scientific research and engineering.

Thinking Machines Lab is reportedly in the process of raising substantial funding, with discussions about securing over $100 million from venture capital firms. This financial backing is crucial as the AI sector becomes increasingly competitive, with numerous startups vying for market share. For context, Anthropic, another significant player in the AI field, recently raised $2 billion in a funding round that valued the company at approximately $60 billion.

Murati’s venture has already attracted a talented team, including 29 employees from prominent companies like OpenAI and Google DeepMind. This hiring spree is indicative of the intense talent wars currently underway in the AI industry, as companies seek to secure the best minds in the field amidst rising competition.

As AI technologies continue to advance, their applications in military contexts are becoming a focal point of interest. The Pentagon and various defense organizations are exploring how AI can enhance operational capabilities. Murati has hinted at an interest in ensuring that AI technologies are developed with ethical considerations in mind. Thinking Machines Lab intends to prioritize AI safety and prevent misuse of its systems, reflecting a growing concern about the implications of AI in defense and warfare.

The startup is committed to sharing best practices and contributing to external research on AI alignment, aiming to foster a responsible approach to AI development. In a landscape where the potential for misuse is high, Murati’s focus on ethical AI could position her company as a leader in responsible innovation.

Mira Murati’s transition from OpenAI to launching Thinking Machines Lab marks a significant step in her career and the evolving landscape of AI. With a robust vision, an impressive team, and potential financial backing, the startup is poised to make a substantial impact on the AI industry. As it navigates the challenges of competition and ethical development, Thinking Machines Lab could redefine how AI technologies are perceived and utilized across various domains.