GoPro Bets on AI Infrastructure With $285M Merger With Starman Optical

GoPro is merging with optical-photonics company Starman Optical for $285 million, forming a path into the AI data-center market while keeping GoPro publicly listed and paying off about $92 million of debt; shareholders will own about 10% post-close, with regulatory approvals and year-end closing target. Starman’s optical transceivers will expand GoPro’s reach into AI infrastructure, defense, robotics and aerospace, leveraging the combined IP in optics and imaging. The deal follows a stock boost after influencer Markiplier acquired an 8.5% stake in GoPro.