OpenAI Acquires Remote Collaboration Platform Multi

A possible future iteration of ChatGPT with built-in videoconferencing and remote collaboration capabilities could be on the horizon, enhancing its appeal to enterprise customers.

OpenAI Acquires Remote Collaboration Platform Multi
Photo by Andrew Neel / Unsplash

OpenAI, following its acquisition of database technology firm Rockset, has now acquired Multi, a startup renowned for its enterprise-centric, video-first collaboration platform. This acquisition, deemed an acqui-hire, will result in the majority of Multi's team, approximately five members, joining OpenAI. As declared by CEO Alexander Embiricos, Multi is set to discontinue operations on July 24.

Founded by Alexander Embiricos, a former Dropbox product manager, and Charley Ho, an ex-Google software engineer, Multi was designed to facilitate remote team collaboration via video chats. The platform featured capabilities such as simultaneous screen sharing for up to ten people, customizable shortcuts, and automatic deep links for various types of content like code, designs, and documents.

In addition to the acquisition of Multi, OpenAI has been actively broadening its enterprise services. In May, OpenAI agreed with PwC to resell its tools to other businesses. Additionally, the company initiated a program for custom AI model tuning and consulting, targeting the business sector.

Speculation is rife about the potential integration of Multi’s video collaboration features into OpenAI’s products. A possible future iteration of ChatGPT with built-in videoconferencing and remote collaboration capabilities could be on the horizon, enhancing its appeal to enterprise customers.

By acquiring Multi, OpenAI is not only strengthening its team with experienced tech talent but also potentially setting the stage for more comprehensive enterprise solutions.