Former Apple chief designer Jony Ive has teamed up with OpenAI to develop AI hardware, following the $6 billion acquisition of his startup, io. Under the leadership of Sam Altman, OpenAI is ramping up hardware initiatives and has reportedly recruited over 40 former Apple employees, including key figures from Apple’s industrial design and hardware engineering teams. This hiring spree aims to enhance the development of OpenAI’s first AI hardware products, anticipated for a 2026 launch.
Apple, meanwhile, is actively pursuing its own AI-driven hardware projects, including smart home devices and AI-powered AirPods. The departure of experienced engineers to OpenAI raises concerns about Apple’s ability to compete in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. As Apple looks to improve its AI offerings—reportedly investing $1 billion for a Gemini-enhanced Siri—it faces challenges in retaining top talent. The competitive pressures highlight the crucial need for innovation in AI hardware and services.
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