The WSJ, citing multiple sources, reported that SpaceX showcased a prototype AI device resembling a transmitter-receiver to select investors. The device is said to be thinner and sleeker than an iPhone and designed to integrate technology from Musk's AI company, xAI.
The report also suggested that the device could feature a proprietary operating system and might utilize Qualcomm's Snapdragon chipset. However, the project remains in its early stages, with ongoing design changes and no confirmation of a market release.
SpaceX and Qualcomm did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Reuters. The possibility of SpaceX entering the device market has been raised before; in February, Reuters reported that the company was considering developing mobile devices connected to its Starlink satellite internet network.
Musk has not entirely ruled out the potential for a Starlink-based mobile phone. He stated in January, "I can’t rule out the possibility someday, but if such a device were to emerge, it would be very different from existing smartphones."
Musk has shown caution regarding smartphone manufacturing. In October of last year, he remarked, "I would hate to think about making a phone, but if it comes to that, I would have to do it." This comment reflects his frustrations with the mobile ecosystem dominated by Apple and Google, while acknowledging the challenges of entering the device market.
The competition for AI devices is expanding among other tech giants as well. China's ByteDance has launched a smartphone featuring its AI model, Doubao. OpenAI is also reportedly developing its own AI device, while Microsoft unveiled a prototype AI badge device utilizing Qualcomm's wearable chips last month.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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