SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, has reportedly unveiled a prototype of a sleek AI device resembling a “handset,” according to insights from The Wall Street Journal.
This new device is said to be thinner and more streamlined than an iPhone, resembling a hybrid between a compact touchscreen phone and a small gadget. SpaceX showcased this prototype to its investors and stakeholders prior to a public announcement, indicating that the design is still in the early stages and may undergo changes.
Musk, however, has pushed back against these reports, labeling them as “completely untrue.”
Both SpaceX and its sister company Tesla possess the manufacturing capabilities necessary for mass-producing such AI devices and have the required access to essential chips for on-device processing. Additionally, SpaceX has expressed interest in expanding into wireless technology, with Starlink Mobile potentially poised to challenge telecom giants like Verizon and AT&T. Some analysts even speculate that T-Mobile or AT&T could be potential acquisition targets for SpaceX, although such a move would come with a hefty price tag.
It remains uncertain whether SpaceX is genuinely pursuing the development and marketing of this device or if it is merely exploring possibilities. However, one thing seems clear: if OpenAI is working on a similar project, Musk may aim to outdo their efforts.
OpenAI is collaborating with former Apple design chief Jony Ive on an AI device that CEO Sam Altman claims will offer a more serene experience than an iPhone. Reports from last fall indicated difficulties in perfecting the product, prompting OpenAI to add another Apple veteran to their team to expedite progress. Recently, news surfaced that Paul Meade, who oversaw the Vision Pro headset at Apple, has joined the hardware division at OpenAI.
Similar to OpenAI, SpaceX’s prototype is reportedly designed to operate on a proprietary system and includes technology from xAI, Musk’s AI venture that SpaceX acquired earlier this year. This would help ensure that the new devices do not become reliant on other companies’ systems, like Google’s Android. The aim seems to be to create something unique with integrated AI interfaces. However, the market is already populated with unsuccessful AI device launches from firms like Humane and Rabbit. Just because a company intends to market an AI device doesn’t guarantee that consumers will be interested—at least for now.
