According to information published by The Information, OpenAI has launched a major hiring offensive targeting Apple’s hardware teams while simultaneously signing manufacturing agreements with iPhone partners to lay the groundwork for its first portfolio of AI devices.
The company has already attracted dozens of former Apple experts, offering them packages worth over $1 million. Among the recruits are interface designers, audio engineers, and manufacturing specialists, with the entire project led by Tang Tan, former Apple executive. His vision involves less bureaucracy and a more ambitious approach to building new products.
Meanwhile, OpenAI has signed manufacturing deals with Luxshare and Goertek, companies already working on iPhone devices. The current focus is on developing a screenless smart speaker–like device, with future plans mentioning smart glasses, a pin wearable, and a voice recorder. The goal is to bring the first devices to market by late 2026 or early 2027.
OpenAI’s hardware ambitions are also being shaped by legendary designer Jony Ive, making it clear that the company is borrowing directly from Apple’s playbook. With a mix of secrecy and high expectations, the upcoming launch promises to be one of the most hyped and anticipated tech events in the coming years.
In brief: Tech World Highlights
- DuckDuckGo is introducing a new option that allows users to filter out AI-generated images from search results, responding to user feedback.
- Meta has declined to sign the EU AI Act’s code of practice, citing legal uncertainties, just weeks before new rules for general AI models come into effect.
- Tesla has officially opened its retro-futuristic Diner & Drive-In in Hollywood, combining a fast charger with classic American diner style, with Musk hinting at future locations.
- Aravind Srinivas, CEO of Perplexity, predicts that the rapid progress of AI could make recruiters and executive assistants obsolete within just six months.
- Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO, revealed that the platform has started using generative AI in its shows and films, beginning with the Argentine sci-fi series The Eternaut.
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