In a major move that could reshape the future of consumer technology, OpenAI—the AI research and deployment company led by Sam Altman—has officially acquired Jony Ive’s AI hardware startup, io. This strategic acquisition marks the beginning of a groundbreaking hardware project that may introduce a new AI-powered device, poised to become the third major personal tech category after smartphones and laptops.
Reports suggest that this mysterious AI device is currently in its prototype phase, with production aimed for 2027. Here’s an in-depth look at everything we know so far about this collaboration, the potential features of the AI hardware, and its implications for the tech ecosystem.
The Vision: Bridging Hardware Elegance and AI Intelligence
Jony Ive’s Design Legacy Meets OpenAI’s AI Prowess
Jony Ive, the renowned designer behind Apple’s most iconic products—including the iPod, iPhone, and MacBook—has long been known for fusing minimalism with functionality. By teaming up with OpenAI, which stands at the forefront of generative AI and language model development, the partnership aims to create a seamless AI hardware experience that enhances daily computing without overcomplicating it.
This device is reportedly not a pair of smart glasses—a notable deviation from recent wearable trends. Instead, it’s being envisioned as a standalone smart assistant that complements devices like the MacBook Pro and iPhone.
Hardware Details: What We Know About the AI Device Prototype
Compact and Elegant, Like the iPod Shuffle
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a respected tech analyst at TF International Securities, the prototype is slightly larger than the Humane Ai Pin but channels the elegance of the iPod Shuffle. Despite its compact form, it is likely packed with sensors and smart functionality.
Display-Less Design, But Rich Connectivity
One of the defining features of this AI device is its lack of a traditional screen. Instead, it will interface with smartphones and PCs for computation and display purposes. This design choice keeps the hardware lightweight and wearable—perfect for being worn around the neck or carried in a pocket.
Expected features include:
-
Built-in cameras and microphones for real-time environmental sensing.
-
No dedicated display, relying on existing devices for output.
-
Portable form factor, ideal for travel and on-the-go productivity.
-
Voice-first interaction, optimized for contextual AI responses.
Global Strategy: Production Plans Outside China
Vietnam Likely to Handle Assembly and Shipping
OpenAI and Ive’s team are reportedly avoiding Chinese production facilities due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and US-China tariff disputes. Instead, Vietnam is being considered as the primary manufacturing hub. This move is strategic not only to mitigate political risks but also to ensure supply chain reliability and faster time-to-market.
This decision echoes the broader trend among major tech firms like Apple, which are diversifying manufacturing operations outside of China.
Integration With Existing Ecosystems
The Third Core Device?
Sam Altman has reportedly described the device as a potential “third pillar” of personal computing—alongside the laptop and smartphone. Instead of replacing these devices, this AI hardware will enhance them by offering contextual insights, task automation, and seamless data processing.
Think of it as your AI co-pilot: always listening, understanding your environment, and offering help just when you need it.
Why This Collaboration Matters
Redefining the AI Hardware Market
This partnership could spark a new product category—one focused on ambient computing, where AI quietly augments your everyday activities without the friction of screens, keyboards, or complex interfaces. The goal is to make AI more intuitive, portable, and assistive.
It also comes at a time when interest in generative AI is booming, and companies like Meta, Apple, and Google are racing to integrate AI into their devices. OpenAI entering this space with a bespoke hardware product signals a serious push to own both the software and hardware layers of next-gen computing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What is the purpose of OpenAI acquiring Jony Ive’s startup?
A: OpenAI aims to create a revolutionary AI hardware device by leveraging Jony Ive’s design expertise and the AI capabilities of its language models.
Q2: What kind of device is OpenAI planning to release?
A: The device is expected to be a portable AI assistant without a screen. It will be slightly larger than the Humane Ai Pin and rely on cameras, microphones, and connections to smartphones and PCs.
Q3: When will the AI device be released?
A: Mass production is planned for 2027, with prototypes already in early development stages.
Q4: Will the AI device have a display?
A: No, it will not have a display. Instead, it will utilize connected smartphones and computers for processing and visual feedback.
Q5: Where will the device be manufactured?
A: Production is expected to take place outside of China, most likely in Vietnam, due to geopolitical and supply chain considerations.
Q6: Is this device meant to replace smartphones or laptops?
A: No, it is meant to complement them. OpenAI envisions it as a “third device” for enhanced AI-driven tasks and seamless integration with your existing tech.
