Apple(US:AAPL) Feng Huang Wang·2025-11-24 02:55Core Insights - OpenAI is aggressively recruiting employees from Apple's hardware division, indicating a strategic move to enhance its AI hardware capabilities [1][2] - The collaboration with former Apple Chief Design Officer Jony Ive aims to develop AI hardware, following OpenAI's acquisition of Ive's AI startup for over $6 billion [1] - Apple's recent introduction of a small program partnership plan appears to be a response to competition from Tencent, particularly WeChat, while also signaling a long-term focus on OpenAI [2] Group 1 - OpenAI has recruited over 40 employees for its device department in the past month, many of whom are former Apple engineers [1] - The recruitment targets a wide range of expertise, including camera engineering, iPhone hardware, and industrial design, showcasing OpenAI's ambition to strengthen its device-related capabilities [2] - Apple's hardware engineering team, led by John Ternus, is also exploring AI integration into its product lines, including smart home devices and AI-enhanced AirPods [1] Group 2 - Apple's dissatisfaction with OpenAI's recruitment efforts is notable, with concerns raised about the loss of key personnel across various departments [2] - The 15% revenue share in Apple's new partnership plan can be interpreted as a concession to developers, contrasting with the previous 30% fee structure [2] - The partnership plan is primarily influenced by negotiations with Tencent's WeChat, but OpenAI's growing influence is seen as a more significant long-term concern for Apple [2]