Former OpenAI CEO Mira Murati launches her own ChatGPT-killer, Thinking Machines Lab

Mira Murati, the former Chief Technology Officer of OpenAI, has officially introduced her new artificial intelligence startup, Thinking Machines Lab. After leaving OpenAI unexpectedly last autumn, she remained out of the public eye while working on her next move. Now, she has revealed that her company aims to build AI systems that are more customisable, capable, and easier to understand.

Although the specifics of its first product remain undisclosed, Thinking Machines Lab has made it clear that it is focused on AI that works alongside humans rather than fully autonomous systems. The company also plans to be more open with its research, pledging to share technical details and code regularly. This approach signals a shift from the secrecy often associated with AI development.

Building an AI team with top talent

Murati has assembled an impressive team of AI researchers and engineers, many of whom have been recruited from OpenAI and other leading AI labs. One of the key figures joining her is John Schulman, an OpenAI co-founder, who will serve as the chief scientist. Schulman had previously left OpenAI for Anthropic, citing his interest in AI alignment, which ensures AI systems align with human values—a key focus for Murati’s new venture.

Another major hire is Barrett Zoph, a well-regarded AI researcher who left OpenAI on the same day as Murati. He is taking on the role of Chief Technology Officer at Thinking Machines Lab. Jonathan Lachman, formerly head of OpenAI’s special projects, has also joined the company. Murati’s startup has already attracted around 30 researchers and engineers, including top talent from OpenAI, Meta, Mistral, Character.AI, and Google DeepMind.

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A different approach to AI development

Thinking Machines Lab is setting itself apart by developing AI that extends beyond coding and mathematics, aiming to adapt to a wider range of human expertise. The company has stated that its focus is on making AI more accessible for various industries by ensuring it can be tailored to different needs. This contrasts with many existing AI systems, which often follow a more generalised approach.

In addition to building advanced AI tools, the company plans to encourage collaboration in the field of AI alignment. It has announced that it will allow external researchers to study its models by sharing datasets, code, and model specifications. This level of transparency is a step away from the closed development style of some major AI labs.

Murati’s new role in the expanding AI landscape

Murati’s move to establish her own AI startup follows a growing trend of former OpenAI executives launching new ventures. Companies like Anthropic and Safe Superintelligence have also been founded by OpenAI alumni, showing a shift in the AI industry as experts explore alternative approaches. Murati is reportedly in talks with investors to raise funds for her startup, ensuring it has the financial backing to compete in a rapidly evolving market.

Her departure from OpenAI marked a significant moment for the company, which has seen major changes in leadership and structure over the past year. Since joining OpenAI in 2018, Murati had become one of its most recognisable figures, often appearing alongside CEO Sam Altman at public events. Before her work in AI, she had played a key role in Tesla’s Model X development and worked at augmented reality firm Leap Motion.

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As Thinking Machines Lab moves forward, the AI industry will be watching closely to see how Murati’s vision for AI development unfolds and whether her company can challenge the dominance of established players in the field.