Former OpenAI Chief Technology Officer Mira Murati has launched a new artificial intelligence startup called Thinking Machine Labs, which has reportedly secured funding at a $450 million valuation. The company, which is still in stealth mode, is focusing on developing new AI models and applications. Murati’s venture has attracted significant attention due to her prominent role at OpenAI, where she served as CTO and briefly as interim CEO during Sam Altman’s temporary departure. The startup has already begun recruiting top talent, including several former OpenAI employees and other AI researchers. While specific details about Thinking Machine Labs’ technology and objectives remain undisclosed, sources suggest the company is working on developing novel approaches to AI development that differ from current large language models. The substantial initial valuation indicates strong investor confidence in both Murati’s leadership and the company’s potential to make significant contributions to the AI field. This development comes amid increasing competition in the AI startup landscape, with numerous former executives from major AI companies launching their own ventures. The timing of Murati’s startup launch is particularly noteworthy, as it follows the recent leadership turbulence at OpenAI and reflects the ongoing evolution and maturation of the AI industry. The high valuation also underscores the continued strong investor interest in AI startups, especially those led by experienced industry veterans.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/mira-murati-new-startup-thinking-machine-labs-valuation-2025-2