GoPro to Merge with Starman Optical Expanding into AI Markets
NEW YORK and SAN MATEO, Calif., Sept. 1, 2026 — GoPro, Inc., the camera and imaging solutions company, announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to merge with Starman Optical, Inc., a privately held optical-photonics company. The transaction is expected to significantly expand GoPro's product offerings and strategic positioning, particularly in the AI data center, government, defense, and aerospace markets.
Under the terms of the agreement, GoPro shareholders will receive an aggregate cash payment of $285 million, or $1.14 per share, subject to adjustments based on the company's net working capital at closing. Additionally, GoPro's existing debt of approximately $92 million will be fully repaid, resulting in a clean, substantially debt-free balance sheet. Starman's U.S.-based optical transceivers will be integrated into GoPro's portfolio, enhancing the company's presence in the rapidly growing market for AI infrastructure.
"This merger represents a strategic opportunity for GoPro to leverage our world-class optical expertise and intellectual property, combined with Starman's advanced transceiver capabilities and U.S. manufacturing platform," said Charles Tebele, CEO of Starman Holding. "By onshoring our manufacturing, we aim to support critical technological advancements in the U.S., addressing the need for domestically manufactured solutions."
Nicholas Woodman, Founder and CEO of GoPro, added, "We are excited to combine with the Starman team to capitalize on this opportunity and play an important role in America's future. GoPro will continue to support its existing consumer products and subscription cloud platform while investing in growth and a broader product roadmap."
GoPro shareholders will maintain ownership of approximately 10% of the combined company. The merger is expected to close by year-end 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, including stockholder approval. Houlihan Lokey, Inc. is acting as financial advisor to GoPro, and Fenwick & West LLP is serving as legal counsel.
"With the addition of Starman's optical transceivers, GoPro aims to extend its reach into the large and rapidly growing market for AI infrastructure. The combined company also plans to leverage its IP, optics, and imaging capabilities across defense, government, robotics, and aerospace markets, building on the demand for U.S.-made solutions," Woodman stated.
The merger is expected to enable GoPro to grow across consumer, commercial, and defense markets as a leading American imaging and optical solutions company, addressing important areas of national security related to cameras, optics, and AI infrastructure.