What to know

  • OpenAI is acquiring LoveFrom, the design company founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, to develop a new AI hardware device.
  • The acquisition involves OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who has been working with Ive on this project since at least late 2023.
  • SoftBank's Masayoshi Son is reportedly backing the venture with a potential investment of $1 billion.

OpenAI is buying LoveFrom, the design company founded by Jony Ive after he left Apple in 2019. This acquisition marks OpenAI's first major move into consumer hardware development.

The deal brings together OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Ive, who was Apple's design chief for nearly three decades. The two have been collaborating on this AI hardware project since at least late 2023, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The new AI device they're developing aims to be more intuitive and natural to use than smartphones. While specific details about the product remain limited, it represents a significant shift for OpenAI from being purely a software company to entering the hardware market.

SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son is reportedly backing this venture. Sources indicate Son may invest up to $1 billion in the project, though the exact financial terms haven't been disclosed publicly.

LoveFrom's team includes over 20 former Apple designers who worked with Ive on iconic products like the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. This design expertise will be crucial as OpenAI attempts to create a consumer AI device that stands out in an increasingly crowded market.

The acquisition comes at a time when other tech giants are also developing AI-focused hardware. Meta recently released AI glasses, while Apple introduced Apple Intelligence for its devices. Google continues to integrate AI features across its hardware lineup.

Industry analysts suggest this move indicates OpenAI's desire to control both the AI software and hardware experience, similar to Apple's integrated approach. This could potentially give OpenAI an advantage in delivering more seamless AI interactions.

Neither OpenAI nor LoveFrom has commented on the timeline for releasing their first hardware product. The development process for new consumer electronics typically takes several years from conception to market.

This acquisition represents a significant milestone in OpenAI's evolution from an AI research lab to a company with ambitions in consumer technology. The partnership with Ive signals that OpenAI is serious about creating AI products that emphasize design and user experience alongside technical capabilities.

Via: theverge.com