OpenAI's "AI hardware" is coming! Altman: More peaceful and tranquil than the iPhone

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described the company's upcoming AI hardware device as a product that is more peaceful and serene than the iPhone. This device is being developed in collaboration with Apple's former Chief Designer Jony Ive and is currently still in the prototype stage, expected to be launched within two years.

At the ninth annual Demo Day of Emerson Collective held in San Francisco, Altman stated that the design concept of this device aims to eliminate the distractions and notifications that modern tech products are filled with. He believes that when people first see this product, they will say:

"Is that it? It's too simple."

This AI device is the result of OpenAI's acquisition of Ive's design company, io, earlier this year. It is rumored to be a pocket-sized, screenless device aimed at bringing AI technology to the mass market.

In the interview, Altman also criticized modern devices for making people feel like they are "walking in Times Square," filled with flashing lights, noise, and various distractions. This experience, characterized by dopamine-chasing social apps and frequent notifications, "cannot make our lives peaceful and serene, nor can it help us focus on our own affairs."

Product Positioning: A New Experience Beyond the iPhone

Altman referred to the iPhone as the "pinnacle of consumer products" to date and stated that one can define their life by having an iPhone or not. However, he believes that modern technology is filled with distractions.

Although OpenAI has not disclosed specific details about the device, both Altman and Ive are keen to describe this product with the term "mood."

Sam revealed the "mood" they are pursuing:

• The device must be equipped with a trustworthy AI that understands you over the long term.
• The device has contextual awareness: when to disturb you, when not to display content, and when to help filter out noise.
• Redefining interaction: not a bunch of apps, but AI as the main interface and operating layer.

Such a device can transform the user experience from "Times Square" to "a cabin by a mountain lake":

Design Concept: Simple and Intelligent

Jony Ive confirmed at the event that the device will be launched within two years. He elaborated on the design concept during an interview with Laurene Powell Jobs:

• Simple to the point of "almost naive," stripping away unnecessary features.
• Ultimate tactile and aesthetic appeal, making you want to hold it in your hand, even "want to take a bite."
• Users will feel unhurried and fearless when using it, with no need to learn.
• The product is a tool, and the person is the main character This description closely resembles Ive's classic hardware design principles, also suggesting a product that is non-screen-centric, minimalist, and has a physical presence.

Earlier this year, OpenAI acquired Ive's design startup io, aiming to bring AI to the mass market through some technological device. The product is still in the prototype stage, with specific features and launch timing yet to be disclosed