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Summary: Sources: Naveen Rao’s new AI hardware startup targets $5B valuation with backing from a16z Crunch

1. Naveen Rao, former AI head at Databricks, is negotiating a $1 billion investment for his new startup, Unconventional, Inc., at a valuation of $5 billion.
2. The startup aims to develop a novel computer design that is more efficient than biology (Brain Scale Efficiency) without biological limitations.
3. Rao's vision includes designing an AI machine with custom silicon chips and server infrastructure, potentially competing with Nvidia in the market.
Summary
Naveen Rao, ex-AI head at Databricks, is negotiating a $1 billion investment for his new startup, Unconventional, Inc., valued at $5 billion. The startup intends to innovate computer design by achieving Brain Scale Efficiency without biological constraints. Rao envisions AI machines with custom
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ID: ff201779-25bb-469f-a731-eae20fff79f4

Category ID: listed_summary

URL: https://techcrunch.com/2025/10/03/sources-naveen-raos-new-ai-hardware-startup-targets-5b-valuation-with-backing-from-a16z/#summary

Date: Oct. 4, 2025

Notes: 2025-10-04

Created: 2025/10/04 10:20

Updated: 2025/12/08 01:20

Last Read: 2025/10/04 15:15