Jony Ive’s Secretive OpenAI Device Reportedly Ditching Screens

The enigmatic collaboration between OpenAI and renowned designer Jony Ive is developing a pocket-sized, context-aware device that notably won't include screens or take the form of eyewear. Internal communications obtained by The Wall Street Journal reveal groundbreaking details about this ambitious project following OpenAI's $6.5 billion acquisition of Ive's AI hardware venture, io.

During a confidential staff briefing, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman projected staggering potential growth, suggesting this partnership could propel the company's valuation to unprecedented heights. The first product from this union, targeting a late 2026 debut, remains shrouded in secrecy amid concerns about premature competitive replication.

Strategic clues emerged during the discussion - the device promises seamless integration into daily life, maintaining constant environmental awareness while serving as what Altman describes as the essential "third core device" complementing Apple's flagship products. With bold projections of record-breaking adoption rates, OpenAI anticipates this innovation will achieve unprecedented market penetration.

Critical design philosophies were clarified during the leaked session: the product expressly avoids wearable formats like glasses or pins, distancing itself from existing wearable tech frustrations. This aligns with Ive's publicly stated ambition to create screen-free solutions addressing the unintended societal impacts of smartphone dependency.

Characterizing this venture as potentially transformative, Altman positioned it as OpenAI's most significant undertaking yet. Ive, drawing parallels to his legendary Apple collaborations, described developing profound creative chemistry with Altman that echoes his historic partnership with Steve Jobs. This union of visionary AI leadership and iconic design expertise signals a potential paradigm shift in personal technology.