This week has been quite hectic for OpenAI, Sam Altman, and Jony Ive. The AI organization had to remove its page regarding io, the company developed by Altman and Ive that is working on a device that could signify the largest product launch in the sector since the introduction of the iPhone in 2007.
While some speculated that the collaboration had ended, it was actually a trademark concern that compelled OpenAI to take down the page from its website:
“This page is temporarily unavailable due to a court directive stemming from a trademark dispute with iyO regarding our usage of the name ‘io.’ We disagree with the claim and are considering our options.”
Subsequently, a court document from OpenAI disclosed additional information about this enigmatic new product, previously referred to as a non-smartphone, and now described as a “non-wearable.” According to my colleague Chris Smith, this device is “at least a year away” from launch, and it will not be an in-ear device like the one iyO is currently accepting preorders for.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo appears to have been correct. In May, he indicated that the “current prototype is slightly larger than the AI Pin, with a design as compact and stylish as an iPod Shuffle. The design and specifications might change prior to mass production.”
Some propose that it could also be worn around the neck or set on an office desk. Nevertheless, I doubt the success of this product will hinge on its form factor, which is why I don’t believe that Jony Ive’s name alone will ensure OpenAI’s initial hardware thrives. In reality, it’s the software that will enable it to flourish.
OpenAI can succeed where Humane fell short
Whenever a new report highlights the type of product OpenAI is creating, I can’t help but reminisce about Humane’s AI Pin. At that time, I was among those skeptical about the technology and saw no valid point for the product’s existence. A year later, I would argue the primary drawback was that the technology simply wasn’t ready.
This is precisely why I believe OpenAI stands an excellent chance of succeeding. For the tasks this AI companion is designed to handle, it requires improved LLMs, reasoning skills, and user-friendliness.
Stick with me: We’ve witnessed a dramatic surge in AI usage. While Apple recently released a fascinating paper discussing how AI models lack reasoning abilities, it doesn’t imply they aren’t valuable. Whether it’s training for a marathon, figuring out how to operate a washing machine in another language, or swiftly recording, transcribing, and summarizing a meeting, AI can greatly enhance our lives.
I also appreciate the strategies that Google, OpenAI, and Opera have adopted regarding AI. The AI companion should assist you in tasks, akin to Google’s AI shopping mode, OpenAI’s on-screen awareness in iOS 26, and Opera’s Operator browser to aid you in accomplishing tasks.
