OpenAI has acquired healthtech startup Torch for approximately $100 million, marking a significant move into AI-powered healthcare solutions. Torch specializes in consolidating fragmented medical data, such as lab results and doctor visits, into a unified, AI-readable system. This acquisition aims to enhance ChatGPT Health, allowing users to analyze and manage their health records effectively. Founded in 2024 by former Forward Health team members Ilya Abyzov and Eugene Huang, Torch adds valuable expertise to OpenAI’s portfolio. Abyzov emphasized the goal of making ChatGPT Health the premier AI tool for health and wellness. The small Torch team, consisting of about four members, will contribute to improving the interpretation of personal health data within the ChatGPT framework. This acquisition reflects the increasing interest among AI companies in specialized healthcare applications, expanding capabilities beyond traditional chatbots. OpenAI’s strategic move is mirrored by competitors like Anthropic, which announced similar healthcare features.
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