OpenAI has acquired io, the design firm founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, for $6.5 billion. This acquisition sparks speculation about OpenAI's potential entry into the hardware market, particularly an AI-centric smartphone.
Ive and his team of 55 employees will oversee creative and design aspects across OpenAI's product line. This includes future iterations of ChatGPT, audio features, and other applications.
Rumors suggest the collaboration could lead to a screenless smartphone designed to move users beyond traditional screen interactions. While io previously denied phone development, reports indicate a focus on innovative devices.
Acquisition: OpenAI acquires io for $6.5 billion.
Design Oversight: Ive's team to influence OpenAI's product design.
Screenless Device: Potential development of a screen-free smartphone.
Ive stated that his experiences have prepared him for this collaboration. The success of a screenless smartphone in the current market remains uncertain, given consumer reliance on visual content.