OpenAI, the renowned AI company behind the viral AI-powered chatbot ChatGPT, has made its first public acquisition by acquiring Global Illumination, a New York-based startup that utilizes AI to build creative tools, infrastructure, and digital experiences. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Global Illumination, founded in 2021 by Thomas Dimson, Taylor Gordon, and Joey Flynn, has an impressive track record, having designed and built products for prominent tech companies such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Google, Pixar, and Riot Games. The startup has received backing from venture capital firms Paradigm, Benchmark, and Slow.

OpenAI expressed its excitement about Global Illumination's impact on their core products, particularly ChatGPT. The entire team of Global Illumination has joined OpenAI to work on enhancing OpenAI's offerings. This acquisition marks OpenAI's commitment to enhancing its capabilities and leveraging AI technology to improve its existing products. Despite having previously focused on investing in emerging AI companies and organizations through funds and grant programs, OpenAI's decision to make its first public acquisition reflects its growing interest in securing innovative solutions and talented individuals to stay at the forefront of the AI industry. Supported by significant funding from industry giants like Microsoft and major venture capital players, OpenAI aims to further develop its core offerings and maintain its position as a leader in the field of AI.