OpenAI’s New Logo Fails To Satisfy The Employees
The proposed logo, which is a plain black ‘O,’ which some mistook for a ring or a zero, raised questions about its creative appeal
OpenAI, the firm behind the ChatGPT, is undergoing a rebranding push, with a new logo that has elicited mixed opinions among its workers. At a recent company-wide meeting, employees saw a glimpse of a proposed logo, which is a plain black ‘O,’ which some mistook for a ring or a zero, raising questions about its creative appeal and compatibility with OpenAI's vision. The move represents the company's push for a new brand as it prepares for further changes to its organisational structure in 2025.
The design, described as a striking departure from Ben Barry's current hexagonal floral mark, had a mixed response. While some employees were dissatisfied with the new insignia, seeing it as sinister and lacking in inventiveness, others believed it did not embody OpenAI's innovative attitude. The present logo, with its detailed geometric design, has become a recognisable brand feature, symbolising OpenAI's aim of developing technology for the benefit of humanity.
The logo revamp is being led by an internal creative team that was extended last year with new hiring from a variety of creative backgrounds. The rationale for the change arises in part from OpenAI's use of licensed typefaces for branding, which the firm does not own. If finalised, the new logo may be released as early as 2025, along with other substantial changes as OpenAI moves its focus to income creation and investor involvement.
The revamp is part of a larger change at OpenAI, which plans to change its organisational structure in the coming year, perhaps replicating adjustments seen at other tech titans such as Google and Facebook, which rebranded as Alphabet and Meta, respectively.
