Could OpenAI’s First Device Be Earphones? Insights from Recent Legal Filings | Tech News

OpenAI’s collaboration with hardware startup io and former Apple design head Jony Ive is not focused on developing headphones, as clarified by io co-founder Tang Tan in a court declaration. The prototype device is neither in-ear nor wearable. Following their partnership announcement, promotional material was retracted due to a trademark dispute with iyO, a Google-backed startup creating custom-molded earpieces. The legal proceedings have revealed that OpenAI and io initially researched in-ear devices, examining 30 headphone models, but were dissatisfied with iyO’s offerings. Emails showed failed attempts to collaborate with iyO, and OpenAI has since shifted its focus away from in-ear products. They are exploring various potential device formats, including desktop, mobile, wireless, and other types, as disclosed by the legal filings. OpenAI aims to create innovative products that transcend traditional interfaces, emphasizing a diverse range of possibilities in their hardware development.

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