OpenAI's upcoming hardware device developed with Jony Ive is reportedly a battery-powered, doughnut-shaped smart speaker with moving parts and cameras, slated for a 2027 release priced over $300.
Japanese startup Iris has developed Nodoca, an AI-powered medical device that analyzes throat images and patient data to assess influenza in seconds, bypassing uncomfortable nasal swabs.
Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in a California federal court, alleging that the AI company stole trade secrets related to unreleased devices. Apple claims former employees who joined OpenAI used their access to proprietary information for AI hardware development. OpenAI denies the allegations.
SpaceX reportedly showed investors a prototype of a "handset-like" AI device, described as sleeker than an iPhone. Elon Musk has denied the report, calling it "utterly false." The device is said to integrate technology from Musk's xAI.
Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon revealed the company is working on over 40 AI device designs, including wearables like jewelry and earbuds, as AI agents are poised to become the new 'app,' potentially shifting focus from smartphones to new form factors like smart glasses.
Microsoft revealed its "Project Sophia" concept for AI-powered business devices at a tech event in San Francisco. The devices, including a card-type and a desktop model, focus on voice-based operation to call AI agents that can autonomously perform tasks.
Qualcomm shares jumped 12% Friday, reaching a record high, fueled by its growing role in the AI boom, particularly in connected devices and upcoming data center chips. The company is also expanding its automotive business with new deals.
Era, an AI device orchestration startup, held an artist showcase in New York in April demonstrating experimental gadgets built on its platform, including a France-themed souvenir, a stock-checking phone-like device, and an air quality monitor. The company has raised $11 million in total funding, including a $9 million seed round led by Abstract Ventures and BoxGroup. Founded last year by former Humane and HP employees, Era provides over 130 LLMs from 14+ providers to enable AI gadget form factors like glasses, jewelry, and home speakers, aiming to replace the traditional app model with an intelligence layer.
