Today in AI — April 2nd: OpenAI's $40B Deal + Google Drops Gemini 2.5 Pro for Everyone

OpenAI makes it rain (again) with a $40B SoftBank-led deal, while Google casually drops their strongest AI model yet into your hands — for free. Let's break it down.

🚀 OpenAI Locks in $40 Billion

OpenAI Valued at $300B After Record-Setting Raise

OpenAI has finalized a massive $40 billion funding round led by SoftBank Group, pushing its valuation to $300 billion.

The deal includes $10B up front, with participation from Microsoft, Thrive Capital, and Coatue. Another $30B could follow later this year if OpenAI completes its transition to a for-profit entity.

💡 Why It Matters

This capital means more compute, more research, and more Soras in the pipeline. It also signals growing investor confidence in OpenAI's ability to lead the future of general-purpose AI.

🤖 Gemini 2.5 Pro Rolls Out for Everyone

Google's Strongest AI Yet — Quietly Free

While OpenAI went loud, Google played it cool. Gemini 2.5 Pro is now live — and free — with expanded capabilities: better long-form reasoning, file uploads, app integrations, and memory support.

It's already available to all users (with usage limits), and those on Gemini Advanced plans get even more.

💡 Why It Matters

Google's strategy here isn't hype — it's access. Making Pro-level tools free positions them as a serious challenger to OpenAI and dramatically lowers the barrier to entry for creators and devs.

🧠 Bottom Line

OpenAI just raised the stakes — and the valuation. But Google's showing up with quiet consistency and powerful updates.

Whether you're in it for the tech, the tools, or just to watch the giants throw elbows, Bot Banter's got your daily download.

See you tomorrow.

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