In May 2025, OpenAI announced its acquisition of IO, a new company founded by Jony Ive, the former Chief Design Officer at Apple. This deal, valued at $6.4 billion and fully paid in equity, aims to merge IO’s cutting-edge AI device innovation with OpenAI’s robust AI research. IO, which was founded just a year before, focuses on developing products that inspire and empower users through advanced technology.
By joining forces with OpenAI, IO plans to work more closely with the research, engineering, and product teams in San Francisco, driving even more innovation in AI-driven devices. This partnership sets the stage for revolutionary advancements in the intersection of AI and hardware technology.
What is iO Sam Altman?
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has long been a key figure in the tech world. Under his leadership, OpenAI has made significant strides in the AI field, with a vision for creating powerful AI tools that integrate seamlessly with everyday devices. The acquisition of IO signals Altman’s commitment to blending advanced hardware design with AI capabilities. Altman and Ive’s collaboration is expected to lead to unique product innovations, combining Altman’s AI expertise and Ive’s renowned design skills.
Does Jony Ive Still Work at Apple?
No, Jony Ive left Apple in 2019 after a remarkable tenure of over two decades. While he was instrumental in shaping Apple’s iconic design language, he decided to step down to focus on his own design firm, LoveFrom. Initially, Apple CEO Tim Cook suggested that Ive and Apple would continue collaborating on new projects, but nothing substantial came out of this collaboration. Instead, Ive pursued independent projects, one of which was founding IO, a company focused on integrating innovative hardware design with next-generation AI technology.
How Wealthy is Jony Ive?
Jony Ive’s net worth, as of 2019, was estimated at £192 million, according to the Sunday Times Rich List. Despite his significant wealth, Ive is known for his private and low-key lifestyle. He shuns the media spotlight, preferring to focus on his work rather than personal fame. His wealth comes from his long career at Apple, as well as his ventures after leaving the company, including his design firm LoveFrom and now his involvement with IO.
What is IO System?
In computing, I/O stands for Input/Output, which refers to how computers communicate with the outside world. The I/O system facilitates the exchange of data between a computer and external devices such as printers, keyboards, and displays. This concept is fundamental to how computers operate, enabling them to send and receive information efficiently. In the case of IO by OpenAI, the I/O system refers to AI-powered devices that enhance the way users interact with technology, making it more intuitive and responsive.
Conclusion
The acquisition of IO by OpenAI represents a major leap forward in the integration of AI and hardware. With Jony Ive’s design expertise and Sam Altman’s vision for AI, this partnership has the potential to reshape the future of intelligent devices. As the collaboration develops, we can expect innovative products that seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with user-friendly designs, pushing the boundaries of what AI can do in our everyday lives.
