Better Offline Monologue: Jony Ive and OpenAI's New BS Machine
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May 23, 2025 Ed Zitron dives into the outrageous $6.5 billion acquisition of Jony Ive's startup by OpenAI, questioning the motives behind this puzzling deal. He unpacks the skepticism surrounding the mysterious collaboration between a legendary designer and a major AI firm, highlighting frustrations over transparency. Concerns about OpenAI's business strategies emerge as Zitron critiques their hardware ambitions amid ongoing financial issues. Meanwhile, there's a nod to innovations in oral health and the importance of mental wellness support.
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Questionable OpenAI-Ive Acquisition
- OpenAI's $6.5bn acquisition of Jony Ive's startup IO is mostly stock in an unprofitable company, making the deal financially questionable.
- The promised hardware product is vague, with no clear details or user interface, suggesting it may be speculative hype.
Financial Oddity of IO Acquisition
- OpenAI's acquisition payment in the form of 'profit participation units' rather than real stock implies financial instability.
- IO, Jony Ive's startup with 55 employees, lacks clear public product details, reflecting uncertainty about its impact.
Vague Post-Apple Projects
- Jony Ive's post-Apple projects are vague and minor, including font design, an award seal, and clothing with magnetic buttons.
- His recent work lacks the innovative impact associated with his Apple era.