“We’re still using decades-old products to connect with unimaginable technology,” Ive said, referring to PCs and smartphones.
“So, it’s just common sense to work on something beyond these legacy products.”
Watch OpenAI and Ive’s collaboration unfold
Strategic Details of the Deal
- OpenAI already owned 23% of io due to an exclusive partnership signed in late 2024.
- The remaining stake is being acquired for $5 billion in stock.
- The io team, made up of 55 employees, will join OpenAI under the leadership of Peter Welinder.
- Caitlin Kalinowski, a former Meta executive, will continue leading OpenAI’s hardware and robotics team.
Read about Kalinowski’s role at OpenAI
LoveFrom, Jony Ive’s design firm, will continue operating independently but will play a major design role in OpenAI’s hardware initiatives.
What Devices Might Be Coming?
Though little has been confirmed, reports suggest io may be working on devices such as “headphones and other devices with cameras”, according to The Wall Street Journal. Sam Altman has said it won’t be a smartphone.
