OpenAI’s First AI Hardware Entangled in Legal Dispute Over ‘IO’ Trademark and Branding Issues

OpenAI, in collaboration with former Apple designer Jony Ive, is developing its first hardwaredevice, but the project is currently stalled due to a legal dispute over the name “io.” The legal issues arose after an audio tech startup called Iyo claimed that the name is too similar to its own, prompting a lawsuit. Court documents indicate that discussions took place between OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Iyo,and Iyo alleges that OpenAI was aware of the potential trademark conflict before moving forward. Following a court order, OpenAI has removed all references to “io” from its website and social media, and the company is being cautious about discussing the project. Although the device is not a wearable or in-ear gadget, specifics remain undisclosed. The hardware, spearheaded by Tang Tan, is expected to take at least another year for finalization, with a release anticipated no earlier than 2026. OpenAI has explored various hardware formats during its development process but must resolve the naming issue before progressing. The situation poses challenges for OpenAI’s entry into the AI hardware space.

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