Big Move: OpenAI Acquires Jony Ive’s io to Design Future AI Hardware
OpenAI has acquired io, the hardware startup founded by former Apple design chief Jony IveDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, in a deal valued at approximately $6.5 billion. The acquisition brings together OpenAI’s artificial intelligence expertise with Ive’s design legacy, marking OpenAI’s first major step into consumer hardware.
Founded in 2024, io includes a team of about 55 designers and engineers, many from Apple. While Ive won’t join OpenAI directly, his design firm LoveFrom will remain independent and lead creative direction on future hardware and software projects.
The partnership aims to develop a new generation of AI-native devices—products designed from the ground up to interact with users through perception and intelligent behavior, moving beyond the traditional smartphone interface. The first devices are expected to launch in 2026.
According to OpenAI CEO Sam AltmanDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, the collaboration reflects a shared vision of creating technology that’s not only intelligent but deeply intuitive. The move positions OpenAI as a serious contender in shaping the future of human-computer interaction.
Source:
A.M.
