The Future of PCs: How OpenAI’s Acquisition of Multi Could Revolutionize Computing

4 min readJun 25, 2024

In a groundbreaking move, OpenAI, the renowned artificial intelligence company behind the sensational ChatGPT, has recently acquired a startup called Multi. This acquisition has sparked a flurry of speculation and excitement within the tech community, as it suggests that the future of personal computing may be about to undergo a dramatic transformation.

*OpenAIs recent acquisition could change PCs forever*

The Acquisition of Multi: A Glimpse into the Future

Multi, a startup known for its advanced screensharing and collaboration tools, has been specifically designed with software engineering teams in mind. The company’s technology allows for features like shared cursors and simultaneous screensharing with up to 10 people, revolutionizing the way teams work together on digital projects.

Integrating Multi’s Technology into ChatGPT

With the acquisition of Multi, OpenAI is poised to integrate these powerful collaboration features into its flagship AI system, ChatGPT. Imagine a scenario where ChatGPT not only provides intelligent responses but also has the ability to directly interact with your computer, drawing on your screen or even editing your code on your behalf.

Blurring the Lines Between Humans and AI

The founders of Multi have expressed a profound interest in exploring the question of how we should work with computers, not just “on” or “using” them, but truly “with” them, in collaboration with artificial intelligence. This philosophical stance suggests that the integration of Multi’s technology into OpenAI’s AI systems could lead to a future where the boundaries between human and machine become increasingly blurred.

The Potential for Remote Control and Collaboration

One of the most intriguing possibilities raised by the acquisition is the potential for ChatGPT to take on a remote control and collaboration role. Speculations abound that the desktop app for ChatGPT, which was recently announced for Mac, could integrate Multi’s features, enabling the AI system to draw on your screen, edit your code, or even control your computer remotely.

Addressing Security and Privacy Concerns

While the prospect of an AI system taking control of your personal computer may seem exciting, it also raises valid concerns about security and privacy. As the integration of AI into our computing experiences becomes more prevalent, it will be crucial for OpenAI and other tech giants to address these concerns and ensure that the user’s safety and data protection remain a top priority.

The Role of Operating Systems in AI Integration

It’s worth noting that both Microsoft and Apple have already begun exploring the integration of AI systems deeper into their respective operating systems. The Recall feature in Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs and the Apple Intelligence in Apple Silicon Macs are examples of this trend, showcasing the growing emphasis on seamlessly integrating artificial intelligence into the core of our computing experiences.

The Competitive Landscape: AI-Powered PCs

As OpenAI ventures into this new arena, it will be interesting to see how the company’s competitors, such as Microsoft and Apple, respond. The race to develop the most advanced and user-friendly AI-powered PCs is on, and the acquisition of Multi by OpenAI could be a significant step forward in this competitive landscape.

The Implications for Software Engineering

For software engineers, the integration of Multi’s collaboration features into ChatGPT could have profound implications. Imagine being able to leverage the AI’s capabilities not only for generating code but also for real-time, collaborative coding sessions, where the AI can offer suggestions, make edits, and even take the lead on certain tasks.

The Impact on Productivity and Workflow

Beyond software engineering, the potential integration of Multi’s technology into ChatGPT could revolutionize productivity and workflow across various industries. Imagine being able to collaborate with your team in real-time, with the AI system acting as a virtual assistant, facilitating communication, and streamlining the overall work process.

The Democratization of AI-Powered Computing

One of the most exciting aspects of this acquisition is the potential for the democratization of AI-powered computing. By bringing these advanced collaboration and remote control features to the ChatGPT platform, OpenAI could make them accessible to a wider audience, empowering individuals and small businesses to leverage the power of AI in their day-to-day computing tasks.

The Future of Personal Computing: Towards a Symbiotic Relationship

As we look towards the future, the acquisition of Multi by OpenAI suggests a profound shift in the way we interact with our personal computers. The lines between human and machine may continue to blur, as AI systems like ChatGPT become increasingly integrated into our computing experiences, blending seamlessly with our workflows and collaborative efforts.

Conclusion: Embracing the AI-Powered Future

The acquisition of Multi by OpenAI is a clear indication that the future of personal computing is poised for a significant transformation. As we navigate this new frontier, it will be crucial for both users and tech companies to approach the integration of AI with a balanced perspective, addressing the challenges and harnessing the immense potential of this technological revolution.