GoKawiilGoPro to merge with Starman Optical, pivoting into AI data centers and defense
GoPro announced a definitive merger with private photonics firm Starman Optical, aiming to expand beyond action cameras into AI data center infrastructure and defense-related optics. Shareholders will receive $285 million in cash, or $1.14 per share, while the stock stays on the Nasdaq and existing consumer products continue. Shares jumped 40% on the news, with major stakeholders including Markiplier and BlackRock standing to benefit.
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GoPro's move follows a growing trend of struggling consumer brands, like Allbirds' rebrand into Smartbird, reinventing themselves around AI infrastructure to capture investor enthusiasm. The pivot suggests the AI boom is reshaping unlikely corners of the market, as companies seek relevance and capital by tying themselves to data center and defense narratives rather than their original consumer businesses.
- GoPro will merge with Starman Optical to enter AI data center and defense markets.
- Shareholders get $285 million in cash while GoPro stays listed on Nasdaq.
- The announcement caused GoPro shares to surge 40%, benefiting investors like Markiplier and BlackRock.
GoPro HERO13 Black — The camera at the center of the story — GoPro's flagship HERO13 Black is built for rugged, waterproof capture whether you're mountain biking, surfing or vlogging. It's the product that made GoPro a household name before its pivot into AI and optics, and it still nails stabilized, wide-angle action footage.
See GoPro HERO13 Black on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: cnbc.com — Cj Haddad, 2026-09-01
Published there as: “GoPro joins AI bonanza with pivot into data centers as shares skyrocket 38%”
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