OpenAI has acquired Jony Ive’s AI hardware startup, io, in an all-equity deal valued at $6.4 billion. The acquisition aims to merge io's hardware expertise with OpenAI's research and engineering teams. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, praised a prototype of the io device, calling it the coolest technology he's ever seen. Jony Ive, historically known for his design role at Apple, aims to challenge traditional devices with new wearable technologies. The announcement had an immediate impact on Apple's stock, which dropped nearly 2% before slightly recovering, as Apple faces pressure to enhance its capabilities in the fast-evolving AI landscape. The first products from this collaboration are expected to launch in 2026, marking a significant step in OpenAI's foray into consumer hardware.

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