• OpenAI has removed all references to Jony Ive's startup "io" from its platforms.
• A trademark complaint from iyO has led to a halt in marketing related products.
• The acquisition deal is valued at approximately $6.5 billion, but marketing is temporarily suspended.

OpenAI has taken significant steps to remove any mention of the hardware startup "io," co-founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, amid an escalating legal dispute. This follows a court order linked to a trademark infringement lawsuit filed by iyO, a startup with a similar name, which alleges that OpenAI and Ive's company have infringed on its trademark rights. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman confirmed the company disagrees with the complaint and is currently reviewing its options, according to Business Insider and India Times.

The federal ruling mandates that OpenAI, Ive, and Altman refrain from using the "io" mark for marketing their products until a hearing can be conducted in October. This ruling follows OpenAI's announcement to acquire io, valued at nearly $6.5 billion, a deal that was described as OpenAI's largest acquisition to date. With the legal challenges now complicating their plans, OpenAI has temporarily taken down all related promotional material, including a video featuring Altman and Ive, according to SFGate and Business Insider.

IYO, the startup bringing the lawsuit, contends it pitched its technology to OpenAI and has expressed its commitment to aggressively protect its brand. "IYO will not roll over and let Sam and Jony trample on our rights," said IYO’s CEO Jason Rugolo, highlighting the tension surrounding this case. The outcome of the impending hearing will be critical for both parties involved, reports SFGate and India Times.