OpenAI forms a new hardware division with the io team, led by Jony Ive, to develop AI-native devices, possibly launching a voice-first product as early as 2026.

The takeover will bring approximately 55 hardware engineers, software developers, and manufacturing experts to OpenAI.

OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman gave his staff a preview of the devices he is developing to build with former Apple designer Jony Ive, paving plans to ship 100 million AI “companions” that he hopes will become a part of life,

OpenAI pushed generative AI into the public consciousness. Now, it could be developing a very different kind of AI device. According to a WSJ report,

Sam Altman is working with Ive to secure direct user access, showing how distribution is becoming more important than technology in the AI race.

In a move that casts a shadow across Apple’s upcoming Worldwide Developer’s Conference, OpenAI has announced that it will purchase io, the AI startup founded by acclaimed former Apple designer Sir Jony Ive, who helped create the iMac, iPod, and iPhone.