IO
Overview
IO is a technology company focused on developing AI-powered devices. It was founded in 2024 by Jony Ive, Scott Cannon, Evans Hankey, and Tang Tan. Based in San Francisco, California, the company has been at the forefront of integrating advanced AI models into innovative hardware. On May 21, 2025, the company was acquired by OpenAI for $6.5 billion. Prior to its acquisition, IO hadn't engaged in any funding rounds.
Recent Developments
- May 2025: IO was acquired by OpenAI in a $6.5 billion all-stock transaction. This acquisition aligns with OpenAI's strategy to integrate cutting-edge hardware capabilities with its AI advancements.
- Early 2025: Further collaboration with OpenAI led to the decision to merge both firms to foster closer integration between hardware innovation and AI research. The merger was supported by the vision of developing AI devices that enhance user interaction beyond traditional interfaces.
- December 2024: IO began receiving investment from OpenAI’s Startup Fund, holding stakes and eventually culminating in a full acquisition merger.
- 2024: Initial development at IO envisioned the creation of AI-powered devices intended to redefine interaction with technology. These prototypes gained the attention of tech giants, leading to strategic partnerships and eventual acquisition talks with OpenAI.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2024 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, California, United States |
| Founders | Jony Ive, Scott Cannon, Evans Hankey, Tang Tan |
| Revenue | Undisclosed |
| Profits | Undisclosed |
| Key Investors | OpenAI |
| Industry | AI Hardware |
| Number of Employees | 55 |
Early History
IO was founded with the vision of revolutionizing how humans interact with AI through dedicated hardware. The founders, with their backgrounds in design and technology, set out to create devices devoid of conventional screens or interfaces. Their efforts attracted notable attention due to their association with high-profile tech projects and their shared vision for the role of AI in daily life. By late 2024, the firm had caught the interest of OpenAI, which led to collaborative efforts and investment, eventually culminating in an acquisition.
Company Profile and Achievements
IO's business model centered on developing hardware that harnessed the power of AI. The company aimed to create devices that would enhance user experience through intuitive interaction with AI, emphasizing real-time processing and minimalistic design. Key milestones include:
- The development of AI prototypes that integrate OpenAI models, aimed at seamless user interaction.
- Successful collaborations and partnerships with industry leaders focusing on pushing the boundaries of traditional computing devices.
- Achieving recognition for innovation in AI and hardware integration.
- The strategic acquisition by OpenAI, positioning IO as a key player in the future of AI device innovation.
Current Operations and Market Position
Under OpenAI, IO continues to operate in San Francisco, focusing on AI device development. With a team of engineers and designers, IO is working on devices slated for a 2026 release. The company is uniquely positioned to leverage OpenAI's AI models, thereby creating devices that are expected to redefine user interaction standards. The acquisition supports OpenAI’s strategic intent to dominate AI-integrated hardware domains.
IO Company Owner
As of May 2025, IO is fully owned by OpenAI. The merger has brought together talent from both organizations to focus on hardware optimized for AI-first interaction.
Conclusion
IO stands at the intersection of AI and hardware innovation. The acquisition by OpenAI emphasizes the importance of this synergy in the tech world. IO is poised to influence the future trajectory of AI-integrated devices, addressing current user experience challenges. The partnership promises to usher in a new age of computing, characterized by devices that are more connected, intelligent, and user-friendly, significantly impacting the landscape of personal computing.