OpenAI's $51M Chip Deal with Altman-Backed Rain AI Faces Uncertainty
suchenzang · x · 2026-08-04
A user inquired about the progress of startup Rain AI's neuromorphic chips, resurfacing a previous WIRED report.
In 2019, OpenAI signed a non-binding letter of intent to spend $51 million on neuromorphic processing units (NPUs) from Rain AI. Notably, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman had personally invested over $1 million in the company.
Rain initially planned to deliver hardware by October 2024, but an OpenAI spokesperson confirmed they have not proceeded with next steps. The startup also faced issues including the removal of Saudi-affiliated funding and a change in CEO.
Related event: OpenAI Planned $51M Chip Deal with Altman-Backed Rain AI(2 posts)→
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