Jony Ive and OpenAI’s Sam Altman Unveil Prototype for Revolutionary AI Device
In a recent discussion hosted by Laurene Powell Jobs at the Emerson Collective Demo Day, former Apple design chief Jony Ive and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman confirmed the existence of a prototype for their collaborative AI hardware project. This device, anticipated to launch by 2027, marks a significant step in integrating artificial intelligence into consumer hardware.
The partnership between Ive and Altman has been a topic of interest since its inception. Their joint venture, io, was acquired by OpenAI for $6.5 billion in equity, underscoring the project’s ambitious scope. During the conversation, Altman described the current prototype as simple and beautiful and playful, emphasizing a design that invites user interaction. He noted that an earlier version lacked the compelling allure they aimed for, but the new design has achieved that desired appeal.
Ive elaborated on their design philosophy, expressing a preference for hardware that appears almost naive in their simplicity. He envisions devices that users feel compelled to touch and use without intimidation, aiming for tools that integrate seamlessly into daily life. This approach aligns with their goal of creating a device that users engage with effortlessly and intuitively.
While specific details about the device remain scarce, current speculation suggests it may resemble a smartphone without a display, positioning it within the emerging category of ambient, screenless AI devices. This concept echoes previous reports indicating that the device is designed to be worn around the neck, utilizing cameras and microphones for environmental awareness, and connecting to smartphones and PCs for computing power and display output.
The development team has been bolstered by the addition of Tang Tan, OpenAI’s chief hardware officer and a 25-year Apple veteran. Tan’s experience under Apple hardware chief John Ternus and Jony Ive brings valuable expertise to the project. Additionally, OpenAI has been actively recruiting talent from Apple, offering substantial stock options and promising a more dynamic work environment. This strategic hiring aims to accelerate the development and production of the AI device.
Manufacturing plans indicate a deliberate move to reduce geopolitical risks by assembling and shipping the device outside of China, with Vietnam currently being considered as a potential location. This decision reflects a broader trend among tech companies to diversify production locations.
The collaboration between Ive and Altman represents a significant push into physical AI, where artificial intelligence moves beyond software into wearable, voice-activated, and context-aware devices. This initiative aims to redefine human interaction with technology, making AI an integral and unobtrusive part of daily life.
As the project progresses, the tech community eagerly anticipates further details about the device’s capabilities and design. The combined expertise of Ive’s design acumen and OpenAI’s advancements in artificial intelligence positions this venture as a potential game-changer in the consumer electronics landscape.
