GoPro merges with Starman Optical, pivoting from cameras to AI optics

GoPro plans a $285 million cash merger with Starman Optical, with GoPro shareholders receiving $1.14 per share and retaining about 10% of the new public company, while roughly $92 million of debt is repaid at closing and the deal is expected to close by year-end 2026 pending approvals. The strategic move pivots GoPro from consumer cameras to US-made optical transceivers and AI data-center optics, leveraging Starman’s photonics to target AI infrastructure, defense, government, robotics and aerospace markets while continuing support for existing consumer products and services. The market reacted positively to the announcement, with GoPro stock rallying significantly on the news and premium pricing over prior levels. The merger emphasizes GoPro’s intellectual property and manufacturing capabilities, aiming to offshore or onshore critical optics hardware manufacturing in the United States. The involvement of high-profile investor Markiplier, who increased his stake to 8.5% just before the merger reveal, helped spur investor enthusiasm and fueled the stock move.