OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is facing a lawsuit from hardware startup IYO over a trademark infringement claim. IYO, founded by former Google employee Jason Rugolo, alleges that OpenAI's acquisition of io, a startup led by legendary Apple designer Jony Ive, infringes on its trademark due to the similar names.
Before OpenAI acquired io, Rugolo had reached out multiple times to discuss potential investment or acquisition opportunities with Altman. However, OpenAI passed on the offers, and now IYO is suing them over the name. Altman shared screenshots of emails from Rugolo on X, stating he wants more "great products" and "less lawsuits".
A US District Judge allowed the case to proceed, ordering OpenAI, Altman and Ive to stop using the "IO mark" in connection with marketing or selling related products. OpenAI has since removed mentions of the project from its website, citing a court order. Altman called the lawsuit "silly, disappointing and wrong", adding it's not cool to resort to lawsuits when you don't get what you want.
Rugolo responded on X, saying "there are 675 other two-letter names they can choose that aren't ours" and emphasizing they're not going to let OpenAI "steal" their name. The lawsuit highlights the complexities of trademark law and the potential consequences of similar branding in the tech industry.
