OpenAI has removed all content related to its hardware collaboration with Jony Ive’s “io” startup. This is tied to a trademark complaint from iyO, a hearing technology company spun out of Google’s research division.
The two names (‘io’ and ‘iyO’) are visually and phonetically similar, prompting legal action.
Mentions of the partnership, including a detailed blog post and a promotional video featuring Ive and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, are no longer accessible on OpenAI’s website or social media accounts.
OpenAI spokesperson Kayla Wood stated,
“This page is temporarily down due to a court order following a trademark complaint from iyO about our use of the name ‘io.’ We don’t agree with the complaint and are reviewing our options.”
Partnership Remains
The legal issue affects only the branding, not the collaboration itself. OpenAI has confirmed that the partnership with Jony Ive’s team remains active and will operate under OpenAI’s leadership.
Purpose-Built AI Devices
The original announcement framed the collaboration as an opportunity to create new kinds of tools. These tools represent AI that goes beyond screens and into physical experiences.
They are more intuitive, elegant, and aligned with how people think. Due to the quality this venture demands, the company is reportedly investing nearly $6.5 billion.
The now-removed blog post said,
“The io team, focused on developing products that inspire, empower, and enable, will now merge with OpenAI to work more intimately with the research, engineering, and product teams in San Francisco.”
The Trademark Conflict
This trademark issue is a reflection of something bigger: the increasing competition in the tech sector.
The lines between overlapping spaces (AI, health tech, and hardware) are blurring. It is not uncommon for companies to stumble upon the same or a similar name that reflects what their company stands for.
In this case, iyO argued that OpenAI’s use of ‘io’ could confuse users and investors.
Courts often take such claims seriously, especially when both companies operate in high-tech industries.
OpenAI has not yet said whether it will rename the hardware division or fight the claim. However, it has emphasized that product development will move forward, regardless of the brand name.
