OpenAI is poised to acquire io Products, a new AI hardware startup founded by Jony Ive and Sam Altman, for an estimated $6.5 billion. The acquisition signals a strategic shift as OpenAI aims to solidify its market position in the realm of AI technology, akin to what the iPhone did for smartphones. Commentary on the move suggests that it might indicate the company’s acknowledgment that achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) may not be as imminent as previously claimed. Critics highlight concerns stemming from previous high-profile failures in visionary tech, including the Humane startup and issues faced by Meta, Apple, and Google in VR/AR applications, raising skepticism regarding the effectiveness of this new venture. Observers note the substantial increase in acquisition price and comment on the changing dynamics of influential collaborations in tech.