In a new interview with Billboard, Simon Cowell has revealed all he knows about the current state of One Direction.

Which is to say: not much.

When asked whether the boys’ break was temporary or permanent, the American Idol mastermind said, “I don’t know if it’s a hiatus or a breakup, to be honest. In a weird way, I don’t want to know. I don’t think they’ve had enough time to experience what it’s like not being in the group to really answer that.”

He also said he trusts 1D to do whatever they feel is right for the band. “They had achieved so much in a short period of time, and I didn’t want them to get jaded. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to trust people more, particularly artists. They’ll decide when they want to come back together.”

As for the solo careers of the remaining members of 1D, Cowell is cautiously optimistic, particularly when it comes to Harry Styles. “He’ll work out what kind of record he wants to make because he’s got great taste -- which is always a help,” said Cowell. "All the writers and producers want to work with him, understandably, but he probably won’t rush into it.”

Cowell also reflected on what it was like to work with the original fivesome when they first became a band: “They were like five puppies," he said. "Really excited, loads of opinions, always wanted to hang out.” Aww.