Recently, Bloomberg reported that OpenAI announced the acquisition of AI device startup io, co-founded by former Apple Chief Designer Jony Ive, in a nearly $6.5 billion all-stock deal. This transaction is not only the largest acquisition in OpenAI's history but also marks a significant move into the AI hardware field.
Founded by Jony Ive and several former Apple colleagues, io aims to drive innovation in consumer electronics. According to public records, OpenAI had already begun collaborating with io in the fourth quarter of 2024 and held a 23% stake in the company. This acquisition represents OpenAI's further investment in io, with the specific equity purchase amount reaching $5 billion.
With this acquisition, io's existing team of 55 hardware engineers, software developers, and manufacturing experts will become part of the OpenAI team. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated that advancements in AI technology represent a major leap forward for human capabilities. However, to truly realize its potential, new forms of computing must be created. He expressed confidence in his collaboration with Jony Ive, believing they will introduce "unprecedented" consumer hardware products.
The creative partnership between Ive and Altman has been ongoing for two years. They aim to meet the urgent market demand for new products through innovation. Ive emphasized that the current market's desire for new products reflects consumers' dissatisfaction with the status quo. Therefore, he and Altman will work together to launch products that fill this gap. The first new device is expected to debut in 2026.
OpenAI's acquisition of io is not just a financial investment but also a push to apply AI technology, especially in revolutionary changes in the hardware sector. With the completion of this transaction, we can expect more innovative products to emerge, which will have a profound impact on the entire tech industry.