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OpenAI reportedly mulls buying Jony Ive and Sam Altman’s AI hardware startup
OpenAI is considering acquiring ioProducts, a startup co-founded by Jony Ive and Sam Altman, for approximately $500 million. ioProducts is developing AI-enabled devices and aims to create technology that is less disruptive than the iPhone. The company has received funding from Laurene Powell Jobs among others, and could potentially partner with OpenAI instead of a full acquisition.
Key points
- OpenAI is in talks to acquire ioProducts, co-founded by Jony Ive and Sam Altman.
- The reported acquisition cost is around $500 million.
- ioProducts is focused on developing AI-enabled devices, including smart home gadgets.
- Jony Ive left Apple in 2019 and started his design firm LoveFrom.
- The startup aims to create products that are less socially disruptive than existing tech.
- Ive confirmed his partnership with Altman in a previous interview.
- The startup has received undisclosed funding from Emerson Collective and other investors.
Why it matters
- The potential acquisition aligns with the growing trend of tech companies investing in AI hardware development.
- 2025 IT Trends indicate a shift towards more responsible and less socially disruptive technology.
- Jony Ive's historical influence on design through Apple sets a precedent for innovative tech experiences.
The discussions around acquiring ioProducts underscore OpenAI's commitment to advancing AI technology in a responsible manner, while leveraging the expertise of industry veterans like Jony Ive.