OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and former Apple design chief Jony Ive have confirmed the existence of prototype artificial intelligence hardware, envisioning a “simple, beautiful” device that could launch within two years.
The two leaders discussed the project during an interview by Laurene Powell Jobs at Emerson Collective’s 2025 Demo Day. They stated the AI hardware is currently undergoing prototype testing.
Ive indicated a potential real-world availability timeframe of “less than two years.”
Details about the device remain scarce, according to The Verge. Rumors suggest it could be smartphone-sized and lack a screen.
Altman characterized the design as “simple, beautiful, and fun.” He noted that he disliked an earlier prototype, despite excitement from his team.
Ive reinforced the emphasis on simplicity and playfulness. He described wanting “almost innocent” simplicity, combined with deep intelligence and complexity, to make it approachable and non-threatening.
He also expressed a desire for users to interact with it “carelessly,” treating it as a straightforward tool.
Altman expressed hope that the device would evoke a feeling of “this is it” upon its unveiling. Ive shared this sentiment.