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Jony Ive and Sam Altman’s AI Device Startup
Former Apple design lead Jony Ive and current OpenAI CEO Sam Altman are currently in discussions to secure funding for a novel startup that will concentrate on developing an “artificial intelligence-powered personal device,” as per sources from The Information. These insiders, who are familiar with the project, have shared that the device will bear no resemblance to a conventional smartphone.
The rumor of this initiative initially surfaced in the autumn of 2023. However, The Information’s recent report indicates that discussions are gaining traction to propel the company forward. Ive and Altman are aiming to secure a minimum of $1 billion in funding for the nascent venture.
While the full roster of potential investors remains undisclosed, insiders reveal ongoing conversations with frequent OpenAI backer Thrive Capital and Emerson Collective, a venture capital organization established by Laurene Powell Jobs. Noteworthy personalities such as SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son have also reportedly engaged in dialogues with Altman and Ive. Financial Times had previously mentioned Son’s interest in involving Arm, an entity he endorses, in the undertaking.
The involvement of these eminent figures from the technology sector could indicate the significance of personal networks. For instance, Jobs reportedly shares a friendship with Ive and Altman. This rapport might prove pivotal, as the reputation of these individuals could deter smaller investors due to the potential higher initial investment involved.
Potential Competition with Apple
While details regarding the nature of the device are scant, speculations suggest that Ive might find himself in direct rivalry with his former employer, Apple. Reports elsewhere suggest that Apple is diligently working on integrating cutting-edge AI capabilities into forthcoming iterations of its iOS software, including iOS 18, designed for iPhones, iPads, and other Apple-branded gadgets.
On the other hand, Altman is actively engaged in various other AI ventures besides spearheading OpenAI. Notably, there is no concrete indication suggesting that OpenAI will have a direct involvement in the anticipated hardware venture as outlined in The Information’s coverage.
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