Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, is once again redefining the boundaries of artificial intelligence and consumer technology in 2025. Best known for catapulting ChatGPT into the global mainstream, Altman is now focusing attention on the intersection of AI and personal devices, envisioning a new kind of digital assistant that strives for calm and simplicity, rather than information overload.
Partnering with Jony Ive, the renowned former designer behind Apple’s iconic iPhone, Altman is developing a groundbreaking AI-first device, promised to be as revolutionary for the 2020s as the smartphone was in the 2000s. Unlike typical gadgets, their prototype is said to be pocket-sized, “screenless,” and devoted to minimizing distractions—offering users a relaxing, nearly invisible way to engage with AI. The aim is to provide peace and calm, as opposed to the constant pings and buzzes of modern smartphones. Early-stage prototypes are ready, and launch plans suggest availability within the next two years.
In addition to his hardware ambitions, Altman is spearheading massive investments in AI infrastructure. Recent announcements include a bold factory concept for building a gigawatt of AI power per week, with support from partners like Nvidia, Oracle, and SoftBank, culminating in one of the largest data center projects ever undertaken in the tech industry. These moves are poised to place OpenAI at the center of the world’s growing demand for artificial intelligence capacity.
Despite legal challenges and fierce competition from other tech giants, Altman remains confident. He recently assured OpenAI employees that their innovation pipeline is strong and that “catching up fast” with rivals like Google is well within reach.
Sam Altman’s forward-looking approach continues to shape the next era of AI for both businesses and consumers.
