Calico Is Google’s New Company Dedicated To Health And Well-Being

Larry Page, the co-founder and CEO of Google, has today announced the launch of Calico, a new company dedicated to health and well-being, particularly to the challenges of aging and associated diseases. The Google CEO added that Arthur D. Levinson, Chairman and former CEO of Genentech and Chairman of Apple, will be the CEO of Calico.

Art Levinson will continue to act as the Chairman of Genentech and Chairman of Apple, as well the director of Hoffmann-La Roche. Commenting on his new role, Tim Cook said: “”There is no one better suited to lead this mission and I am excited to see the results.” While Announcing Google’ new investment, Page said that it should no be surprising if Google invests in projects that seem “strange or speculative” compared with its existing Internet businesses. He also noted that Google’s new investments like this are very small by comparison to its core business.

“Art and I are excited about tackling aging and illness.  These issues affect us all—from the decreased mobility and mental agility that comes with age, to life-threatening diseases that exact a terrible physical and emotional toll on individuals and families.  And while this is clearly a longer-term bet, we believe we can make good progress within reasonable timescales with the right goals and the right people.

It’s hard for many companies to make long term investments.  So I’m tremendously excited about the innovative new way we’re funding this project.”

The Google co-founder also noted that with long term planning and thinking around healthcare and biotechnology, Calico can certainly improve millions of lives.