The AI revolution is on the horizon, and according to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, it may not necessarily require new hardware to support its advancements. Altman recently shared his insights during a visit to Cambridge, highlighting that most AI progress will be cloud-supported, potentially making existing devices future-proof.
Altman emphasized the capabilities of current smartphones, noting that devices like Samsung’s latest flagship models already come equipped with AI features. This perspective is particularly relevant as global PC shipments have seen growth, with expectations of AI PCs becoming a primary focus for manufacturers in the latter part of 2024 to boost sales.
While rumors circulated last year about a potential collaboration between Apple’s Jony Ive and OpenAI to develop an AI-focused device, Altman’s current focus remains on cloud-based solutions rather than hardware development. He described an AI app that could serve as a comprehensive virtual assistant, accessing vast amounts of personal data without feeling invasive.
Despite the cloud-centric approach, Altman acknowledged that if specialized hardware becomes necessary to fully support advanced AI applications, users may welcome the opportunity to upgrade their devices. While he expressed interest in AI-powered devices like the Humane AI Pin, Altman clarified that he has no immediate plans to delve into the AI hardware market.
Overall, Altman’s perspective suggests that while the AI revolution may not mandate new hardware, future developments may lead to innovative possibilities for device enhancements to fully harness the power of artificial intelligence.
