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OpenAI Delays First Hardware to 2027 and Drops 'io' Brand in Court Filing

The disclosure comes in litigation over the 'io' mark with audio startup iyO.

Overview

  • OpenAI told the court, via a sworn statement from VP Peter Welinder, that its first hardware device will not ship before the end of February 2027, a shift from earlier talk of a 2026 reveal.
  • The filing says OpenAI has decided not to use the name 'io' or 'IYO' for any AI-enabled hardware product naming, marketing, or sales.
  • The statements arise from a trademark lawsuit filed by iyO, which previously secured a temporary restraining order blocking OpenAI’s use of the 'io' mark.
  • OpenAI said a viral video purporting to tease its device was fake, distancing the company from claims of a pulled Super Bowl ad.
  • Unverified reports continue to suggest earbuds dubbed 'Dime' could be the first product, with a spotted patent cited by tipsters, though prior filings note a referenced prototype was not an in-ear or wearable device.