Key Facts

Openai’s Plans For An Ai Device

Altman reportedly told OpenAI employees he and Jony Ive, the famed Apple designer who joined OpenAI last year, planned to release AI “companions,” though it appeared they wouldn’t be working on a smartphone. Altman and Ive discussed a device that would be aware of the user’s surroundings and life and be placed in a pocket or on a desk, with other plans for a device without a screen. The pair indicated the device wouldn’t be a new phone or something that could be worn, and they told Bloomberg it would allow consumers to connect with AI in “very new ways.” Altman suggested OpenAI’s first product wouldn’t “make the smartphone go away” and be a “totally new kind of thing.” Altman previously called Ive—who designed Apple’s iMac, the iPod, the iPhone, the iPad and the Apple Watch—the “greatest designer in the world,” writing he was “excited to try and create a new generation of AI-powered computers.” The Information reported last year that Luxshare signed a deal with OpenAI to produce a consumer AI device, which could resemble a smart speaker without a display. There is no evidence Ive is involved in the Qualcomm effort.

Key Background

Qualcomm’s stock dropped to its lowest level over the last 12 months earlier this month as the chipmaker faces supply shortages. The company issued disappointing financial guidance in February, when CEO Cristiano Amon said its weakness was “100% related to memory” as soaring demand for AI data centers cut into its memory chip supply. Memory chip prices have surged by up to 90% in some markets, and in February, the market intelligence firm International Data Corporation said it expected the global smartphone market to decline by as much as 13%.

What To Watch For

Qualcomm will report second-quarter earnings after market close on Wednesday.

Further Reading

ForbesEverything We Know About OpenAI’s $6.5 Billion Purchase Of Jony Ive’s IoBy Ty Roush