In a surprising turn of events, OpenAI has removed promotional materials related to its high-profile partnership with legendary Apple designer Jony Ive from its website and YouTube channel. The content, which highlighted a $6.5 billion deal to acquire Ive’s AI hardware startup io, showcased the collaboration between OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Ive. This move has sparked speculation about the status of the partnership.
The promotional video, widely discussed for its focus on the friendship between Altman and Ive, as well as the ambitious vision for new AI hardware, has been pulled just weeks after the deal’s announcement on May 21, 2025. According to sources, the removal is linked to a trademark dispute surrounding the branding or naming associated with the venture.
The acquisition of io was initially hailed as a groundbreaking step for OpenAI to expand into hardware, leveraging Ive’s expertise as the designer behind iconic Apple products like the iPhone. The deal aimed to create innovative AI-enabled devices, potentially redefining user interaction with technology beyond traditional screens and keyboards.
While neither OpenAI nor Ive has issued an official statement regarding the withdrawal of the materials, the sudden disappearance of all related content has fueled online discussions. Posts on social media platforms suggest uncertainty, with some users speculating that the partnership might be facing significant challenges or even dissolution.
This development raises questions about the future of OpenAI’s hardware ambitions and whether the collaboration with Ive will proceed as planned. The trademark issue, though not fully detailed, appears to be a critical factor in this unexpected move, as reported by TechCrunch and other outlets like Bloomberg.
As the situation unfolds, industry watchers are keenly observing how OpenAI navigates this setback and whether it will impact the company’s broader strategy to integrate AI into consumer hardware. Updates on the partnership status are eagerly awaited by tech enthusiasts and investors alike.
Andrew Lee
