SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, might be developing an AI gadget that is thinner than the iPhone.

      SpaceX has allegedly presented investors with a prototype of a handheld AI device that is slimmer than an iPhone. The Wall Street Journal reports that the device is said to operate on a proprietary operating system, utilize a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip, and incorporate AI technology from xAI.

      The project remains in its initial stages, and there is no assurance that SpaceX will develop it into a tangible product. Notably, the report does not categorize it as a conventional smartphone, which is significant. It could be a phone, something resembling a dedicated AI gadget, or a product that may never progress beyond the prototype phase.

      SpaceX has previously been associated with phone-like hardware.

      This isn’t the first instance of SpaceX being linked to phone-like devices. Earlier this year, a report suggested that the company was looking into a Starlink-connected phone, although Musk denied that SpaceX was working on such a product.

      Musk has also discussed the potential of creating a phone in the past, mainly due to his dissatisfaction with Apple and Google’s control over app distribution. He indicated he would consider developing an alternative phone if X were removed from the major app stores.

      This context provides insight into the significance of the new prototype, even if it's still ambiguous what SpaceX aims to create. A handset-like device associated with xAI aligns with Musk’s efforts to unify more of his companies’ software, services, and hardware, along with his vision for an “everything app,” which he expressed shortly after acquiring Twitter (now X).

      If it transforms into a phone, what might its focus be?

      Should SpaceX's prototype evolve into a phone-like device, AI would likely be its standout feature. Musk already has xAI, Grok, X, Starlink, and his long-held vision for an “everything app” encompassing payments, messaging, services, and media. A specialized device could cohesively integrate these elements without relying heavily on iOS or Android.

      Privacy and platform control might also be part of the offering. Musk has criticized mainstream tech companies concerning user data and app store authority. He encouraged users to switch to Signal during the WhatsApp privacy controversy and later accused WhatsApp of mismanaging user data.

      A SpaceX device could leverage xAI, encrypted communication, X services, and possibly Starlink connectivity, providing it a more defined identity than many AI products. However, creating a successful phone remains highly challenging. Users anticipate refined hardware, high-quality cameras, dependable software, solid battery life, carrier support, and a comprehensive app ecosystem.

      Currently, this is just an early prototype, not a finalized product. Only time will reveal whether SpaceX is investigating the creation of a genuine smartphone, a more specialized AI device, or something entirely different.