OpenAI and Jony Ive Face Hurdles With AI Device

OpenAI and Jony Ive are encountering obstacles as they attempt to create a new AI-powered device without a screen, according to the Financial Times. The project, which began after OpenAI acquired Ive’s device startup io in May for $6.5 billion, was envisioned as a bold step toward shaping the future of personal AI computing. At the time, CEO Sam Altman said Ive and his team would design a new class of AI-driven computers, with Bloomberg reporting the first launch was expected in 2026.

 

The device is described as palm-sized and designed to function without a screen, relying instead on audio and visual inputs from its surroundings to respond to user requests. However, the team is reportedly struggling with critical aspects of the product, including how the AI manages privacy, its technical personality, and the infrastructure required to support its operations. These challenges could push back the intended release schedule.

 

One of the key debates has centered on the device’s interaction model. Sources told the FT that rather than waiting for specific prompts, the AI was planned to adopt an “always on” approach, proactively engaging with users. But this feature has proven difficult to refine, particularly in ensuring that the device only responds when genuinely useful and knows when to conclude conversations. Such issues highlight the complexity of designing an AI companion that feels intuitive without becoming intrusive.

 

The collaboration between Altman and Ive had generated excitement due to Ive’s track record at Apple, where his designs shaped iconic products like the iPhone. Yet the difficulties show that merging cutting-edge AI with consumer-friendly hardware requires more than sleek design. Balancing seamless functionality with trust, privacy, and user comfort may prove to be the greatest challenge.

 

Despite these hurdles, OpenAI’s continued investment signals its ambition to expand beyond software and into personal devices. If the team resolves these technical and ethical challenges, the project could redefine how people interact with AI in their daily lives. For now, the future of the device remains uncertain as the team works through its core design and technical questions.