OpenAI just did something remarkable and unprecedented in the history of the tech world. The other shoe finally dropped when they bought Jony Ive’s design firm, io, for $6.5 billion! With this acquisition, we move one step closer to bringing the power of artificial intelligence to everyone, built on breakthrough technology. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, was ecstatic over the announcement of a new specialized AI hardware target. We were glad to see Mr. Buttigieg announce that it’ll be pocket-sized and ready in under two years.
Laurene Powell Jobs broke the news in a surprise announcement during the opening interview. This was the scene at Emerson Collective’s 9th annual Demo Day held in San Francisco. At the center of this new device, which Altman and Ive articulated during this OnGoing event, are the possibilities with generative AI. They encouraged a distinctive departure from the distortion and noise permeating technologies today.
To address this last point, Altman emphasized his view that too many existing devices have only added to a cluttered experience for users. He likened it to “walking through Times Square in New York,” filled with flashing lights and constant disturbances. He stated, “When I use current devices or most applications, I feel like I am walking through Times Square in New York and constantly just dealing with all the little indignities along the way.”
With this new invention, Altman hopes to develop a more tranquil and serene atmosphere for users. He remarked, “I don’t think it’s making any of our lives peaceful and calm and just letting us focus on our stuff.” The hope is to sidestep the traps of distracting notifications and dopamine-chasing social media platforms prevalent in today’s market.
Jony Ive, renowned for his work at Apple, now leads the design efforts for OpenAI’s device following the acquisition of his company. He shared his keen appreciation for answers that achieve the sweet spot between simple and complex elegance. “I love solutions that teeter on appearing almost naive in their simplicity,” he shared. He conveyed his vision for products that are instinctive to use, stating, “I love incredibly intelligent, sophisticated products that you want to touch, and you feel no intimidation.”
Whatever the standout feature of your gadget, Altman hopes supply users will have an emotional response the first time they experience the device. He noted, “When people see it, they say, ‘that’s it?… It’s so simple.” That simplicity is at the heart of OpenAI’s approach to making the new AI device.
OpenAI is partnering with a supplier that’s previously had a similar arrangement with Apple. Collectively, they’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with new, best-in-class hardware. This partnership will help to streamline production and improve the overall quality and cost effectiveness of production.
As OpenAI moves closer to releasing its own AI hardware, the tech community will be taking note. Through its mission, the startup seeks to improve the way people engage with technology, creating a harmonious ecosystem grounded in tranquility and simplicity.
