Key facts
- SpaceX has reportedly developed a prototype for an AI device.
- The device is described as "handset-like" and sleeker than an iPhone.
- Elon Musk has denied the existence of such a prototype.
- The device is intended to run on a proprietary operating system and integrate technology from Musk's AI company, xAI.
- SpaceX possesses manufacturing capabilities and access to necessary chips for AI device production.
SpaceX has reportedly developed a prototype for an AI device, described as "handset-like" and sleeker than an iPhone, according to The Wall Street Journal. The company allegedly showed the prototype to investors and stakeholders, indicating it is in an early stage of development with potential for design changes.
Elon Musk has publicly denied these reports, labeling them "utterly false." Despite the denial, SpaceX possesses significant manufacturing expertise and access to the chips required for on-device AI computation. The company has also indicated intentions to expand into the wireless sector, potentially with Starlink Mobile.
This development comes as OpenAI, another company associated with Musk, is also reportedly working on an AI device, collaborating with former Apple executive Jony Ive. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has claimed their device will be more peaceful than an iPhone. OpenAI has recently recruited Paul Meade, Apple's VP responsible for the Vision Pro headset, to its hardware team.
SpaceX's purported device is said to operate on a proprietary operating system and integrate technology from Musk's AI firm, xAI. This approach aims to avoid platform lock-in, such as Google's Android, and create a new interface with native AI capabilities. However, the market for AI devices has seen notable failures from companies like Humane and Rabbit, raising questions about consumer demand.