Kamal Ghorui
The mystery surrounding OpenAI’s foray into an AI-powered physical hardware may have been partially lifted as the company has provided a significant update to the project’s timeline. The ChatGPT-maker has confirmed that its highly anticipated AI device, which is being developed in collaboration with former Apple design chief Jony Ive, will not reach the hands of consumers until at least February 2027.According to a report by Business Insider, the revelation surfaced in a sworn statement by Peter Welinder, OpenAI’s vice president and general manager, as part of a court filing on Monday (February 9). The admission came amid a legal battle with the startup Iyo, which sued OpenAI last year over the “io” trademark.
‘Mystery’ Jony Ive AI device reveal vs shipping
While the shipping date has been pushed to early 2027, the public “reveal” of the device may still be closer than it appears. Speaking at Axios House Davos last month, OpenAI’s chief global affairs officer, Chris Lehane, confirmed that the company is “on track” for a product unveiling in the second half of 2026.“We are looking at something in the latter part [of 2026],” Lehane told Axios, noting that while this is the most likely timeline, “we will see how things advance.”
The ‘io’ name is dead
A major pivot in the project’s branding was also confirmed in the recent filing. OpenAI’s legal team stated that the company has officially abandoned plans to use the “io” name for any forthcoming hardware. This decision follows a temporary restraining order issued June last year that forced OpenAI to scrub mentions of the “io” partnership and promotional videos from its website.The lawyers noted that OpenAI has “reevaluated the branding… in light of OpenAI’s existing brands,” and will not use the contested name for marketing or the sale of any AI-enabled hardware. The lawyers also argued that a scheduled preliminary injunction hearing in April 2026 is now “unnecessary.”
OpenAI’s secret device: What we know so far
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has been vocal about his desire to move beyond the traditional smartphone era. Previously, he described the upcoming device as a “radical departure” from current mobile technology, and even labeling the experience as “peaceful.” Altman has also hinted that users will likely be “shocked” by the device’s simplicity.Industry speculation suggests the hardware will be a screenless, wearable form factor controlled almost entirely through voice, sound and gesture. Rumour mill says that designs have ranged from a “Pin” or Brooch, advanced earbuds and even a high-tech pen or glasses.
