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3w ago

OpenAI Acquires Jony Ive's Startup io for $6.4 Billion to Develop AI Device

The collaboration aims to create a screen-free 'AI companion' as a third essential device, with plans to ship 100 million units by late 2025 or 2026.

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Jony Ive worked at Apple for just under 30 years.
The short-lived Humane Ai Pin wasn't exactly discreet
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Overview

  • OpenAI has acquired Jony Ive's AI design startup, io, in a $6.4 billion deal, signaling a major move into AI hardware development.
  • The new device, described as an 'AI companion,' is intended to complement smartphones and laptops while moving users away from traditional screens.
  • The device will reportedly be unobtrusive and fully aware of users' surroundings, with deep integration of OpenAI's ChatGPT technology.
  • Sam Altman and Jony Ive aim to launch a 'family of AI devices' and plan to ship 100 million units, with the first device expected by late 2025 or 2026.
  • The partnership has drawn comparisons to the legendary collaboration between Steve Jobs and Jony Ive, with speculation about its potential to rival the iPhone's impact.