OpenAI Acquires Torch: A Strategic Move to Lead the AI Healthcare Data Era

OpenAI isn't just answering health questions anymore; it's building a brain for them. On Monday, the company announced the acquisition of Torch, a healthcare technology startup focused on creating a 'unified medical memory' for AI.

OpenAI Torch Acquisition: Solving the Healthcare Data Puzzle

According to Reuters, Torch was designed to consolidate patient health data that is typically siloed across various vendors and formats. By integrating this technology, OpenAI aims to provide a seamless experience where users can connect their medical records directly to the ChatGPT Health interface.

Torch's employees will join OpenAI as part of the deal. Torch CEO Ilya Abyzov, who previously co-founded the primary care startup Forward, expressed excitement about putting their technology in the hands of hundreds of millions of users. This move follows the closure of Forward in 2024, which had attempted to deploy tech-enabled 'CarePods'.

Aggressive Expansion and Rivalry with Google

OpenAI's appetite for M&A has grown significantly. In 2025, the company acquired Jony Ive's AI device startup io for over $6 billion. The hiring of Albert Lee from Google to lead corporate development signals a long-term strategy to hunt for targets that can outpace rivals like Anthropic.