OpenAI Plans Hardware Launch with Jony Ive’s Team Hiring Apple Alumni
OpenAI is gearing up for its inaugural hardware product launch, possibly making waves in the tech industry in 2026. The company is collaborating with renowned designer Jony Ive, who is known for his work at Apple.
OpenAI’s Hardware Launch Timeline
According to Chris Lehane, OpenAI’s policy chief, the company is on track to unveil its first device in the latter half of 2026. Lehane shared this update during an event at Axios House in Davos. While he did not confirm a release date, he suggested that the unveiling would likely occur if development proceeds as planned.
- Plausible Unveiling: Second half of 2026
- Release Date Uncertainty: Not guaranteed for the same year
- Industry Speculation: Some reports suggest a 2027 manufacturing launch
Key Team Hire from Apple
The design team, which includes Apple alumni, has recently welcomed Janum Trivedi. Trivedi is recognized for his significant contributions to various features of iPadOS 15, including Split View and Multitasking Drag & Drop. His skills will enhance OpenAI’s collaboration with Jony Ive’s ‘LoveFrom’ team.
About Janum Trivedi
- Previous Experience: Worked on SpringBoard at Apple
- Contributions: Built key iPadOS features like Pointer Gestures
Collaboration and Future Prospects
Sam Altman, an OpenAI leader, and Jony Ive announced their partnership in May, focusing on a line of AI-powered hardware products. Recent reports indicate that OpenAI is also enhancing its audio capabilities, potentially hinting at a product oriented towards audio functionality.
The progress in their hardware development suggests that OpenAI is committed to making a substantial entry into the hardware market, positioning itself alongside established players in the industry.
