OpenAI invests in brain-interface biz co-founded by CEO Sam Altman

OpenAI, having invested heavily in artificial intelligence, is placing a side bet on organic intelligence.

The launderer of training data is participating in the funding of Merge Labs, a maker of brain computer interfaces.

"Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) are an important new frontier," the AI biz said on Thursday. "They open new ways to communicate, learn, and interact with technology. BCIs will create a natural, human-centered way for anyone to seamlessly interact with AI. This is why OpenAI is participating in Merge Labs' seed round."

The fact that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is a co-founder of Merge Labs may also have something to do with OpenAI's participation. 

OpenAI did not disclose the amount of its investment, a portion of the $252 million seed round that also came from investors including Bain Capital and Gabe Newell, co-founder and CEO of Valve. But its financial infusion is inconsequential in light of ...