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After Sam Altman's OpenAI acquired former Apple designer Jony Ive's artificial intelligence (AI) hardware firm io on Wednesday, details about the AI gadget these two businesses may be producing have emerged. According to an industry observer, it is presently in the prototype phase, with a size somewhat larger than the unsuccessful Humane's Ai Pin, but it might still be as "elegant" as an iPod Shuffle. The gadget is expected to begin mass production in 2027, with manufacturing and shipment taking place outside of China to reduce geopolitical concerns.
Jony Ive with OpenAI's AI Device
In a post on X (previously Twitter), TF Securities International analyst Ming-Chi Kuo writes that Jony Ive and OpenAI's new AI gadget now has a prototype that is somewhat larger than Ai Pin, Humane's contextual computer, and the wearable device. It might be as small as an iPod Shuffle, with a similarly "elegant" look. However, because it is in the prototype stage, the final design and specs are subject to change.
My industry research indicates the following regarding the new AI hardware device from Jony Ive's collaboration with OpenAI:
— éƒæ˜ŽéŒ¤ (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) May 22, 2025
1. Mass production is expected to start in 2027.
2. Assembly and shipping will occur outside China to reduce geopolitical risks, with Vietnam currently the… pic.twitter.com/5IELYEjNyV
The AI gadget may include cameras and microphones for environmental sensing, which might be especially beneficial when worn around the neck, offering contextual knowledge about the wearer's surroundings. While it will not have a display, the gadget is expected to link to smartphones and PCs, utilizing their computing power and display capabilities.
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Kuo thinks Jony Ive's io and OpenAI will begin mass manufacture of the AI gadget in 2027. Its assembly and transportation might take place outside of China, given the country's geopolitical issues and trade battles with the United States. Vietnam is believed to be the most likely destination for its assembly.
According to prior rumors, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has previously teased the device among the company's workers. It would be able to rest in the user's pocket or on their desk in addition to being an AI neckpiece. Altman allegedly confirmed that the AI gadget is not a pair of spectacles, and Jony Ive is similarly cautious of developing a wearable AI product. It is supposed to be the third key item that a person would place on their desk, following a MacBook Pro and an iPhone.
