OpenAI exploring consumer health products, including AI-driven personal health assistant
What's the story
OpenAI is considering the development of consumer health products, including an AI-driven personal health assistant. The move comes as part of the company's strategy to expand beyond its core offerings. This was first reported by Business Insider, citing sources familiar with the company's plans. However, OpenAI has not yet commented on the matter when approached by Reuters.
Industry challenges
Challenges faced by tech companies in consumer health data management
Leading tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft have long attempted to give consumers control over their medical data. But these efforts have often been met with limited success. Google's health record service was shut down in 2011 due to low traction, while Amazon's Halo fitness tracker business was closed in 2023. Similarly, Microsoft's HealthVault platform also failed to gain widespread adoption among users.
Team expansion
Key hires signal OpenAI's push into healthcare
OpenAI's interest in the healthcare sector has been bolstered by some key hires. Nate Gross, co-founder of physician network Doximity, was appointed as head of healthcare strategy in June. Former Instagram executive Ashley Alexander also joined the company as vice president of health products in August. These appointments are part of a broader effort to strengthen OpenAI's presence in the healthcare industry.
User demand
ChatGPT's rapid growth and potential in healthcare
At the recent HLTH conference, Gross revealed that ChatGPT has a staggering 800 million weekly active users. A significant number of these users turn to the platform for medical advice. This statistic highlights the potential demand for AI-powered healthcare tools and services, further justifying OpenAI's interest in this sector.