iPhone to AI era: Man who helped build Apple’s icon; now stealing staff for OpenAI

OpenAI is aggressively poaching Apple employees and partnering with its suppliers, aiming to launch consumer hardware by late 2026. Led by former Apple executive Tang Tan, the recruitment drive has attracted talent in design, manufacturing, and engineering. OpenAI plans a family of screen-free, pocket-sized AI devices, challenging Apple’s dominance and creating tension between the two companies.