Jony Ive and Laurene Powell Jobs Say ‘Humanity Deserves Better’ from Technology
Jony Ive’s AI startup “io” has been acquired by OpenAI, with Laurene Powell Jobs playing a crucial role. In an interview, they discuss the dual impact of technology on society and emphasize the importance of responsibility in innovation. They also reflect on their long-lasting friendship and community initiatives.
Jony Ive’s latest venture seems to be gaining traction following its acquisition. His AI startup, “io,” was bought by OpenAI back in May 2025, a move that seems to align innovative minds. Together with significant investor Laurene Powell Jobs, they dive deep into how technology can impact society — both positively and negatively.
During a recent interview with the Financial Times, Jony Ive expressed his gratitude toward Powell Jobs, noting her pivotal role in his post-Apple endeavors, particularly in establishing his company, LoveFrom. He stated, “If it wasn’t for Laurene, there wouldn’t be LoveFrom.” Their fraternal bond stems from the 1990s when they first crossed paths at the homes of their late spouses, Steve Jobs and Anita Jobs.
An interesting point emerged in their conversation regarding technology. Powell Jobs was outspoken about the darker implications of tech advancements, saying, “We now know unambiguously that there are dark uses for certain types of technology.” She referred to studies linked to rising anxiety among teenage girls as evidence of technology’s unintended consequences.
Ive shed some light on this as well, emphasizing that innovations sometimes lead to unforeseen results, mixing both glory and chaos. “If you make something new, if you innovate, there will be consequences unforeseen,” he said, candidly including himself in the discussion due to his role in designing the iPhone.
Both Ive and Powell Jobs expressed their sense of responsibility toward these consequences, even if they weren’t intentionally designed. “While some of the less positive consequences were unintentional, I still feel responsibility,” he added, reflecting an earnest commitment to create something beneficial.
Although they remained tight-lipped about their upcoming OpenAI device, Powell Jobs admitted she is tracking its progress closely. “Just watching something brand new be manifested, it’s a wondrous thing to behold,” she remarked, hinting at exciting developments.
The interview also explored their shared commitment to community efforts. Ive is involved in redeveloping sections of San Francisco while Powell Jobs is working to save the San Francisco Art Institute from financial distress. Amidst these philanthropic interests, their enduring friendship deeply resonates as they reflect on life and relationships.
As Ive noted, “It’s funny… as I’ve got older, to me, it’s [about] who, not what,” suggesting that meaningful connections are increasingly paramount.
In 2022, alongside Tim Cook, they initiated the Steve Jobs Archive, cementing their bond as they showcase the legacy of Steve Jobs.
It seems there’s much more brewing in their collaborative ventures, with the thoughtful contemplation of responsibility and impact on the tech space leading the way.
In summary, Jony Ive and Laurene Powell Jobs share a reflective perspective on the intersection of technology and society, acknowledging both its benefits and drawbacks. Their discussions during the Financial Times interview reveal a commitment to creating positive impacts while grappling with the unforeseen consequences of innovation. Their friendship, intertwined with shared values and philanthropic efforts, illustrates a deeper connection that transcends mere collaboration.
Original Source: appleinsider.com
