OpenAI has further strengthened its position in the artificial intelligence field by fully acquiring “io,” a startup founded by Jony Ive and Sam Altman, in a $6.5 billion stock deal. As part of the agreement, Apple’s former chief designer Jony Ive and his design firm LoveFrom will lead all of OpenAI’s creative and design strategies.
Jony Ive is widely recognized in the technology world as the mastermind behind iconic products such as the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Now, he is collaborating with OpenAI—one of the most powerful players in AI—to design the next generation of AI-powered devices. Altman described this partnership as working with “the world’s greatest designer” and expressed their intention to integrate AI technologies into a new kind of computer.
The “io” team consists of approximately 55 highly skilled engineers, scientists, and product development experts, most of whom previously worked at Apple. These professionals will now join OpenAI. Until now, “io” was one of OpenAI’s shareholders; this acquisition marks the largest deal in the company’s history.
The goal of “io” is to create innovative AI-driven devices that move beyond traditional screens. The first product is expected to be launched in 2026. These devices aim to enable people to use AI more creatively and functionally in their daily lives.
This move signals OpenAI’s ambition to compete not only in software but also in the physical AI device market. It positions OpenAI as a direct competitor to tech giants like Apple and Google. While companies such as Meta and Google are developing AI smart glasses, OpenAI’s distinct advantage is having design icon Jony Ive leading this effort.
This collaboration represents a significant turning point toward more intuitive and integrated AI user experiences. Redesigning the relationship between technology and humans will not only enhance functionality but also establish a new era in the industry through aesthetics and human-centered design.
