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OpenAI pushed generative AI into the public consciousness. Now, it could be developing a very different kind of AI device.<\/p>\n
According to a WSJ report<\/a>, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman told employees Wednesday that the company\u2019s next major product won\u2019t be a wearable. Instead, it will be a compact, screenless device, fully aware of its user\u2019s surroundings. Small enough to sit on a desk or fit in a pocket, Altman described it as both a \u201cthird core device\u201d alongside a MacBook Pro and iPhone, and an \u201cAI companion\u201d integrated into daily life.<\/p>\n The preview followed OpenAI\u2019s announcement that it will acquire io, a startup founded just last year by former Apple designer Jony Ive, in a $6.5 billion equity deal<\/a>. Ive will take on a key creative and design role at OpenAI.<\/p>\n Altman reportedly told employees the acquisition could eventually add $1 trillion in market value to the company as it creates a new category of devices unlike the handhelds<\/a>, wearables<\/a>, or glasses<\/a> that other outfits have rolled out. <\/p>\n Altman also reportedly emphasized to staff that secrecy will be critical to prevent competitors from copying the product before launch. A recording of his remarks leaked to the Journal raises questions about how much he can trust his own team and how much more he\u2019ll be willing to disclose.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n