Apple and Nvidia are reportedly in discussions to invest in OpenAI as part of a new funding round that could value the ChatGPT creator at over $100 billion. This potential investment would significantly boost OpenAI’s valuation and comes amid reports of Thrive Capital planning to invest approximately $1 billion in the company, leading the latest fundraising round. Apple and OpenAI have not commented on the reports, while Nvidia, Microsoft, and Thrive Capital declined to respond.
OpenAI has become increasingly central to Apple’s artificial intelligence strategy, with Apple integrating OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its devices under “Apple Intelligence.” Apple may also gain an observer role on OpenAI’s board. Microsoft, which is OpenAI’s largest strategic investor with more than $10 billion invested, is also expected to join the funding round. However, the specific amounts to be invested by Apple, Nvidia, and Microsoft have not been disclosed.
OpenAI’s soaring valuation reflects its pivotal role in the AI landscape, driven by the rapid adoption of ChatGPT since its launch in late 2022. This has spurred companies across various sectors to pour billions into AI to maintain a competitive edge. The firm, led by Sam Altman, was reportedly valued at $80 billion in February after a deal involving the sale of existing shares in a tender offer led by Thrive Capital. The latest investment talks highlight the ongoing AI arms race, with tech giants like Apple, Nvidia, and Microsoft vying to capitalize on OpenAI’s innovations to expand their market influence.