Business & Finance
GoPro announces merger with Starman Optical to expand into AI data centers
The $285 million deal with the optical-photonics company is expected to close by the end of 2026.
The short version
- Action-camera manufacturer GoPro is merging with optical-photonics company Starman Optical to enter the AI infrastructure, defense, robotics, and aerospace markets.
- GoPro will remain publicly listed, with its shareholders receiving $285 million at closing while retaining roughly a 10% ownership stake.
- The transaction is scheduled to close by late 2026, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.
Key facts
- GoPro is merging with Starman Optical, an optical-photonics company, in a transaction valued at $285 million.[Engadget]
- Under the terms of the agreement, GoPro's outstanding debt of approximately $92 million will be paid off.[Engadget]
- The merged company plans to integrate Starman's optical transceivers to target the AI data center market, while continuing to manufacture cameras and provide cloud subscription services.[Engadget]
- Filmmaker and YouTuber Markiplier (Mark Fischbach) recently became GoPro's largest individual shareholder after acquiring an 8.5 percent stake.[Engadget]
What remains uncertain
- The merger is contingent upon regulatory approvals, shareholder agreement, and other standard closing conditions.[Engadget]