OpenAI is making another big move in the AI world.
The company has agreed to acquire Statsig, a Seattle-based startup that specializes in product testing, for $1.1 billion in an all-stock deal.
This is one of the largest acquisitions in OpenAI’s history.
Along with the deal, Statsig’s founder and CEO, Vijaye Raji, will join OpenAI as the new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Applications.
Why Statsig Matters
Statsig helps companies test and experiment with digital products faster.
By bringing this platform in-house, OpenAI hopes to speed up how it develops and improves its apps, including:
- ChatGPT
- Codex, its AI coding assistant
- Future products still in the works
This move fits neatly into OpenAI’s push to expand its Applications division, which is now led by Fidji Simo, the former Instacart CEO.
Raji will report directly to Simo and oversee engineering for these tools.
Leadership Changes at OpenAI
The acquisition comes with major leadership changes inside OpenAI. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Executive | New Role | Focus |
| Vijaye Raji | CTO of Applications | Leading product engineering for ChatGPT, Codex, and new apps |
| Fidji Simo | CEO of Applications | Driving OpenAI’s app business |
| Kevin Weil | VP of OpenAI for Science | Building AI-powered tools for scientific discovery |
| Srinivas Narayanan | CTO of B2B Applications | Overseeing enterprise-focused AI products |
Kevin Weil’s New Science Mission
Kevin Weil, who previously served as Chief Product Officer, announced he’s moving to lead OpenAI for Science.
His new team will aim to build what he calls “the next great scientific instrument”- an AI platform designed to accelerate breakthroughs in research.
Weil will partner closely with Sebastien Bubeck, a leading AI researcher and former Microsoft executive.
A New Role for Srinivas Narayanan
Srinivas Narayanan, the current Head of Engineering, will transition into the role of CTO of B2B Applications.
In this role, he’ll work directly with COO Brad Lightcap to strengthen relationships with enterprise clients.
What Happens to Statsig?
Although OpenAI is bringing Statsig under its umbrella, the startup will keep operating independently from its Seattle office.
The company says all current Statsig employees will become part of OpenAI once the deal closes.
The acquisition is still pending regulatory approval.
What This Means for the Future
For OpenAI, this deal is more than just an expansion. It shows how serious the company is about building practical, real-world applications for AI.
For example:
- Everyday users may see faster updates and new features in ChatGPT.
- Businesses could benefit from stronger enterprise-focused tools.
- Scientists and researchers might soon get AI-powered platforms to speed up discovery.
It’s a sign that OpenAI isn’t just focused on creating advanced AI models; it’s also doubling down on how those models get applied in daily life.
