New AI labs blur the line between research and revenue
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Several high-profile AI labs launching in recent years fall into ambiguous territory on the ambition spectrum.
Humans& has drawn attention for its vision of next-generation AI centered on communication and coordination, but remains vague about monetizable products. The team has hinted at reinventing workplace tools like Slack or Google Docs, placing it in a middle tier where ideas exist but execution remains unclear.
Thinking Machines Lab, founded by former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati, initially appeared headed toward a fully commercial trajectory after raising a massive seed round. Recent executive departures, however, have raised questions about whether the company’s internal roadmap is as defined as investors expected.