OpenAI Acquires Statsig for $11 Billion to Boost Product Testing

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has agreed to acquire Statsig, a product testing startup, for 11 billion dollars in an all-stock transaction. This acquisition marks one of the largest in OpenAI's history. Statsig, founded in 2021, specializes in developing tools that help software developers test and optimize their products. The acquisition is expected to enhance OpenAI's capabilities in product testing and optimization, further solidifying its position as a leader in the AI industry.

The acquisition of Statsig is a strategic move for OpenAI, as it aims to integrate advanced testing and optimization tools into its existing suite of AI services. Statsig's technology will enable OpenAI to provide more robust and efficient testing solutions to its clients, helping them to improve the performance and reliability of their software products. This acquisition is part of OpenAI's broader strategy to expand its offerings and stay ahead of the competition in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

As part of the acquisition agreement, Statsig's founder and CEO will join OpenAI as the Chief Technology Officer for Applications. This individual will report to the newly appointed CEO of the department, who previously held a leadership role at Instacart. The CEO expressed that the new addition will assist enterprises and developers in leveraging OpenAI's technology to build secure and empowering applications for users.

OpenAI has been increasingly active in pursuing large-scale acquisitions this year, driven by a surge in its valuation. In March, the company completed a 400 billion dollars financing round at a 3000 billion dollars valuation. Currently, OpenAI is in discussions to sell shares held by current and former employees at a 5000 billion dollars valuation.

In July, OpenAI acquired an AI device startup co-founded by Apple's former design chief for 65 billion dollars in an all-stock deal. Additionally, OpenAI had agreed to acquire an AI programming startup for approximately 30 billion dollars, but the deal ultimately fell through.

The acquisition of Statsig is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in the coming months. Upon completion, Statsig's employees will become part of OpenAI but will continue to operate independently from their current office, serving their existing client base. The acquisition underscores OpenAI's commitment to innovation and its willingness to invest in cutting-edge technologies to drive growth and success in the AI industry.

In addition to the acquisition, OpenAI has made several adjustments to its leadership team. The Chief Product Officer will transition to the role of Vice President of the newly established "Artificial Intelligence Science" team. The Vice President of Engineering will take on the role of Chief Technology Officer for B2B applications. Several product leaders, including Nick, Ashley, and Ian, will report to the newly appointed CEO of the department.