OpenAI hires 40+ ex-Apple employees to build next-gen AI gadgets

Technology Nov 24, 2025

OpenAI just brought on board over 40 former Apple staffers—including big names like Evans Hankey and Tang Tan—to help kickstart its hardware dreams.
This major hiring spree follows their $6 billion buyout of Jony Ive's startup, io, and the new team could debut OpenAI's first-ever hardware products as early as 2026.

What this means for the tech world

With Sam Altman leading the charge, OpenAI is clearly aiming to move beyond software and shake up the AI gadget scene.
Meanwhile, Apple is still working on its own smart devices and wearables but could face some slowdowns after losing so much talent.
The race to create the next must-have AI device just got a lot more interesting.