Equity OpenAI goes all in with Jony Ive as Google plays AI catchup
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May 23, 2025 Max Zeff, a TechCrunch reporter who covers Google I/O, joins the discussion about OpenAI's groundbreaking acquisition of Jony Ive's design firm for $6.5 billion. They explore the ambition to create AI-powered devices that transcend traditional screens, comparing it to the iPhone's launch. Max shares insights from Google I/O, including the revival of Google Glass and mixed reactions to Google’s enhanced AI search features. They also touch on the implications of 23andMe's new ownership and the dynamics in the tech industry today.
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OpenAI's AI Hardware Vision
- OpenAI's $6.5 billion acquisition of Johnny Ive's startup signals a push towards AI-powered consumer hardware.
- The collaboration frames Sam Altman as visionary and Ive as the design genius behind the new AI devices.
Google I/O's AI Focus
- Google I/O heavily emphasized AI integration in search and new smart glasses.
- Google is evolving search from keyword results to AI agents that fetch and act on information.
Google Glasses Comeback Anecdote
- The new Android XR smart glasses concept resembles Google Glass but enhanced by generative AI.
- Attendees waited hours at Google I/O to try them, showing strong interest despite past mockery of Google Glass.