OpenAI Set to Develop a New AI-Centric Device

OpenAI, the prominent player in artificial intelligence, is reported to be developing a new hardware device that will focus on AI. Sources from Nikkei Asia suggest that this innovative device aims to “replace smartphones.”

Collaboration with Jony Ive

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, shared with the media that the development of this device will be in collaboration with Jony Ive, the former chief design officer at Apple.

Creating a New User Experience

Last year, discussions emerged about the alliance between OpenAI and Ive to design a device featuring generative AI, which could manage complex user interactions more effectively than conventional software.

Less Disruptive Than the iPhone

A report by The New York Times in the previous year indicated that the device is designed to be less socially disruptive compared to the iPhone.

Ongoing Discussions and Affordability

During a podcast episode in May 2024, Altman talked about their discussions regarding the partnership and the potential of running large language models (LLMs) on smartphones, pondering over whether such a device would be affordable.

Challenges of Introducing a Cheaper Device

Nevertheless, Altman mentioned that a more affordable device would not necessarily be the answer. He stated that a majority of users are already willing to invest in a phone. Furthermore, he noted, “Even if a cheaper device could be made, I think the barrier to carrying or using a second device is pretty high.”

Previous Ventures into AI Hardware

Altman has shown a strong interest in developing similar technologies. A few years back, he made an investment of $30 million in a startup called Humane Inc., aimed at producing hardware for generative AI. Founded by former Apple staff Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, Humane received this funding during its Series A round.

Mixed Responses to Past Devices

However, products like the Humane AI Pin and another AI-oriented device, the Rabbit R1, did not garner positive reviews. Both devices were plagued by various bugs and offered a subpar user experience. Engadget even referred to the Rabbit R1 as “A $199 AI toy that fails at almost everything.”

Current Trends in the Tech Industry

At present, major technology firms are concentrating on integrating AI functionalities within existing smartphones, instead of designing new devices. Over recent years, Google has been focused on incorporating generative AI features into its Pixel smartphone range, along with making certain features available offline.

Collaboration with Apple

In a similar vein, OpenAI has partnered with Apple to embed ChatGPT within the iPhone, leveraging Apple Intelligence.

New AI Model Release

In related news, OpenAI recently announced the launch of OpenAI o3-mini, a new artificial intelligence model engineered to provide cost-effective reasoning with enhanced efficiency and STEM capabilities. This model can be accessed through ChatGPT and the API, succeeding OpenAI o1-mini in the model lineup.