The tech world is abuzz with speculation about a mysterious new AI-powered device being developed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in collaboration with Jony Ive, the former Chief Design Officer at Apple. Early reports suggest that the upcoming device will not feature a screen, marking a bold departure from conventional smart devices.
According to a New York Times report published last September, Altman and Ive began their partnership nearly two years ago with the vision of creating a device that uses artificial intelligence to offer a less socially intrusive experience than smartphones—particularly the iPhone.
Their goal appears to be helping users reduce screen time, while staying cautious about wearable technologies like smart glasses or watches.
In a leaked internal call obtained by The Wall Street Journal, Altman reportedly told OpenAI staff that the device won’t be a phone or smart glasses—the two formats heavily favored by companies like Meta and Google.
Instead, it’s expected to be a new category of “screenless” devices, which users can carry in their pocket or place on their desk. Altman described the prototype as “one of the coolest pieces of technology ever.”
Well-known Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo speculated on X (formerly Twitter) that Altman and Ive might be working on something similar to the AI Pin—a voice-controlled wearable device—but possibly larger and worn around the neck.
According to Kuo, the device would be equipped with cameras and microphones to be aware of its surroundings and connect with smartphones, while not having a screen. Mass production could begin as early as 2027.
Altman was an investor in the AI Pin developed by startup Humane, a small voice-activated wearable device designed for calls, texts, and web searches. It launched in 2023 but received poor market reception and was discontinued by early 2024.
Perhaps the most intriguing clue came from Altman himself, who described the device as a "companion" during the leaked call.
This ambiguous term opens the door to countless possibilities, including the idea that the device could be some form of robotic assistant, as speculated by tech site GIZMODO, which cited Al Arabiya Business.
While the exact nature of the device remains a mystery, one thing is clear: OpenAI and Jony Ive are aiming to redefine what personal computing looks like.
Source: Al Arabiya Business