Sam Altman Goes Public with His ‘IO’ Trademark Dispute

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman shared email exchanges with Jason Rugolo, founder of the Iyo hearing device startup, to highlight the context surrounding a lawsuit against OpenAI over its device, “io.” The emails, posted by Altman, reveal a friendly communication in which Rugolo sought Altman’s support for his startup’s competitive device. Altman declined an investment but suggested collaboration, mentioning Apple’s Jony Ive, involved in OpenAI’s recent acquisition of an AI hardware company. As OpenAI announced its device in May, Rugolo grew concerned about the name similarity and requested clarity about potential partnership opportunities. Following a lawsuit in June, alleging that OpenAI was aware of Iyo’s technology before its launch, OpenAI scrubbed the “io” name from its site due to a restraining order. The ongoing dispute reflects the tension between startups and established players, with both parties defending their positions publicly, and OpenAI seeking dismissal of the case, deeming Iyo’s claims unfounded.

Source link