Former Apple design chief Jony Ive is reportedly teaming up with OpenAI to develop an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) device. The venture is supported by over $1 billion in funding from Softbank CEO Masayoshi Son. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman plans to utilize Ive’s design firm LoveFrom to create OpenAI’s first consumer device, with brainstorming sessions already taking place at Ive’s San Francisco studio. The project aims to deliver a user experience that is more natural and intuitive when interacting with AI, drawing inspiration from the game-changing touchscreen technology of the original iPhone.

Ive’s involvement is particularly significant considering his previous concerns about the addictive nature of smartphones. In an interview with the Financial Times in 2018, he emphasized Apple’s “moral responsibility” to address this issue and highlighted the need for tech companies to anticipate unintended consequences when designing new products. By collaborating with OpenAI, Ive may have the opportunity to develop an interactive computing device that reduces dependence on traditional screens.

Sam Altman’s familiarity with this type of innovation is evident through his investments in Humane, a startup founded by former Apple employees that is developing a screenless wearable AI device. This aligns with the vision for the OpenAI-Ive project, which seeks to create a device that goes beyond traditional smartphone technology. While the details of the device and the partnership are still in the early stages, the discussions are progressing seriously.

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