Jony Ive has teamed up with OpenAI to develop a cutting-edge artificial intelligence device, marking a significant expansion of his post-Apple ventures. The partnership emerged from discussions between Ive, the former head of design at Apple, and Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, facilitated by Brian Chesky, CEO of Airbnb. This project aims to create a new computing experience that prioritises user interaction and minimises social disruption.
Ive, who gained fame for his minimalist design philosophy and iconic products like the iPhone, is shifting his focus to hardware that leverages generative AI capabilities. The device is expected to integrate advanced AI functions, such as summarising information, recognising objects, and managing complex tasks.
Ive’s new AI hardware venture, backed by significant funding from himself and Emerson Collective, founded by Laurene Powell Jobs, is set to attract up to $1 billion in investment by year-end. The project, still in its early stages, currently employs a small team of ten, including former Apple designers Tang Tan and Evans Hankey, both of whom have a history of working closely with Ive on the iPhone. The team operates out of a 32,000-square-foot office in San Francisco—part of a larger $90 million real estate investment by Ive in the Jackson Square area. The specifics of the device and its release date remain confidential.
After leaving Apple in 2019, Jony Ive embarked on a new journey by founding his design firm, LoveFrom. Initially, he operated largely in the shadows, focusing on high-profile projects and collaborations while developing a minimalist brand identity. Ive’s work spanned various industries, including fashion, automotive, and architecture, as he sought to explore creative avenues beyond consumer electronics. He also engaged in real estate during pandemic. This new venture marks a significant chapter in his career, allowing him to leverage his design expertise in new ways.
