OpenAI Ropes In Apple Legend To Build AI-Driven Gadget. Here's What It Could Be
OpenAI's new gadget, if it ever sees the light of day, will not be a rival to iPhone but will more be targeted at the Humane AI Pin and Rabbit R1.
OpenAI, a leading force in artificial intelligence innovation, is reportedly working on a groundbreaking AI-driven hardware device that could potentially replace smartphones. As per a Nikkei Asia report, the company aims to reshape how users interact with technology.
OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, confirmed the company's partnership with renowned former Apple design chief Jony Ive (who has worked on designs of everything from the iPhone to iOS) to develop this ambitious device.
As per Analytics India Magazine, discussions between the two industry leaders reportedly started last year, with a shared vision of building a gadget that leverages generative AI to simplify complex user interactions, potentially outperforming current smartphone software.
Not Exactly An iPhone
The New York Times previously suggested that this device might be less socially intrusive than Apple's iconic iPhone. In a May 2024 podcast episode, Altman hinted at the collaboration and explored the feasibility of running large language models (LLMs) on smartphones, pondering whether such technology would be affordable for the masses.
However, Altman acknowledged that price isn’t the only concern. “Almost everyone’s willing to pay for a phone anyway,” he remarked, adding that convincing users to adopt a second device would be challenging, regardless of its cost.
Altman's Focus On AI Gadgets
Altman's interest in AI-driven hardware isn't new. He previously invested $30 million in Series A funding for Humane Inc., a startup founded by ex-Apple executives Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno. Humane sought to develop AI-powered gadgets, including the Humane AI Pin and Rabbit R1.
Unfortunately, these devices faced criticism for their numerous bugs and subpar user experience so far.
While many tech giants, including Google and Apple, are focusing on integrating AI into existing smartphones, OpenAI appears set on exploring an entirely new approach. The company's prior collaborations, such as integrating ChatGPT into iPhones using Apple Intelligence, may offer hints about what lies ahead for this bold venture.
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