Paul Meade is set to launch OpenAI’s hardware division, reports suggest.
Paul Meade, Vice President at Apple and leader of the Vision Products Group, is reportedly departing the company next week to join OpenAI. Sources indicate that he will be establishing the AI firm’s hardware division, focusing on the continued development of AI-integrated devices in collaboration with Jony Ive’s startup, which merged with OpenAI in a $6.5 billion arrangement in 2025 but operates independently.
The impact of Meade’s new role within OpenAI on the existing collaboration with Ive’s studio remains uncertain. Reports suggest that he will lead the creation of a range of AI-driven devices. Earlier in the year, it was noted that Ive’s team is also in the process of developing several AI gadgets, including a smart speaker anticipated for release in 2027.
During his seven-year tenure at Apple, Meade played a crucial role in engineering the Vision Pro headset and directed various smart glasses initiatives. Reports indicate that Apple may not release its first model of smart glasses until late 2027. He also contributed to the development of the iPad and iPhone before joining the Vision Products Group in 2017, subsequently overseeing its hardware engineering initiatives.
As Meade transitions to OpenAI, Fletcher Rothkopf, a founding member of the Apple Vision Pro team, is expected to assume many of his duties. The report highlights that Meade’s exit is linked to John Ternus’ upcoming promotion to CEO of Apple, effective September 1, as Ternus currently serves as Senior Vice President of hardware engineering.
