Details Leak of Jony Ive’s Ambitious OpenAI Device

After much speculation within the tech community, OpenAI has officially acquired “io,” a highly anticipated startup led by former Apple design visionary Jony Ive, in collaboration with OpenAI’s chief, Sam Altman. The acquisition price stands at an impressive $6.5 billion. Recently, OpenAI released a video that discussed their partnership with Ive and Altman, providing a few insights into what they are developing.

So, what are they working on with all that funding and expertise? Observers from The Washington Post unearthed an internal chat between Sam Altman and OpenAI employees, revealing that Altman set an ambitious goal of distributing 100 million AI “companions.” He reportedly described this device as “the biggest thing we’ve ever done as a company.” Altman clarified that while the 100 million target is a long-term goal, they aspire to achieve it “faster than any company has ever shipped 100 million of something new before.”

What exactly is this intriguing “companion”? The device is intended to be fully aware of its user’s environment and lifestyle. Although discussions have primarily focused on a singular device, Altman hinted at the possibility of it being part of a “family of devices.” Jony Ive has referred to the project as “a new design movement,” suggesting a minimalist ethos at its core.

Initially, the plan was for Ive’s startup to develop hardware independently, while OpenAI would supply the AI capabilities. However, their vision seems to have expanded significantly. Altman emphasized that the device will play a “central role in utilizing OpenAI’s offerings.” He even suggested that if someone subscribes to ChatGPT, they could receive new computers by mail as part of the package.

Altman argued that existing technology, including our standard laptops and websites, is inadequate for the AI experiences they envision. He bluntly stated that current applications of AI do not harness its full potential.

While it’s confirmed that this invention is not a smartphone, Altman dismissed the idea of it being a pair of glasses. Ive is also stepping away from creating another wearables product, aligning with his design principles.

The good news for eager tech enthusiasts is that this is not merely a concept; Ive’s team has developed a working prototype. Altman has even taken one home to experience its features firsthand. As for the timeline, Altman is targeting a release in late 2026.

Although OpenAI keeps the specifics of the device under wraps, supply chain insights are providing hints. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared possible design details on social media, suggesting that it will be “slightly larger” than the Humane AI Pin, yet “as compact and elegant as an iPod Shuffle,” lacking a screen. According to Kuo, the device will communicate with your phone and computer using microphones for voice and cameras for environmental awareness. Interestingly, he indicates it may be worn like a necklace rather than clipped on.

Kuo anticipates mass production to start in 2027, but he wisely cautions that the final appearance and functionality may still undergo changes. This leads to the critical question: Could the OpenAI device potentially be the groundbreaking innovation we’ve been waiting for? Will it revolutionize technology, or is it destined to join other ambitious projects that fell short of success? Altman is optimistic, stating that after using the prototype, he believes it will be “the coolest piece of technology.”

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