OpenAI may enter consumer hardware with AI-powered smart speakers and wearables, signaling a major shift beyond software.
OpenAI is planning a major expansion into consumer hardware, working on a new line of AI-enabled devices that could redefine how people interact with artificial intelligence.
According to a report by The Information, more than 200 employees at OpenAI are focused on building a family of AI devices. The lineup is expected to include a smart speaker, and potentially smart glasses and an AI-powered smart lamp.
First Product: AI Smart Speaker
The first device likely to be released is an AI smart speaker, which sources familiar with the project say could be priced between $200 and $300. While the product’s launch is still several years away — with deliveries not expected before February 2027 — it promises to be more advanced than typical voice-activated speakers.
Unlike most conventional smart speakers, OpenAI’s version is expected to include a built-in camera, enabling it to interpret visual information about its environment and users. This could allow the device to respond to context, gestures, and scenes — extending AI assistance beyond voice alone.
Future Devices: Smart Glasses and More
In addition to the smart speaker, OpenAI is reportedly exploring other hardware concepts:
- Smart glasses — potentially bringing advanced AI features and visual computing to wearable form factors, but not expected to be ready for mass production until around 2028.
- AI smart lamp — a conceptual device that could combine lighting with interactive AI functionality.
Why OpenAI Is Entering Hardware
This push into physical devices represents a new chapter for OpenAI, which has until now been best known for software like ChatGPT and other large-language model applications. The company’s move into hardware was accelerated by its $6.5 billion acquisition of io Products, a startup led by former Apple designer Jony Ive. This deal brought deep industrial design expertise into OpenAI and signals its intent to compete in the consumer tech space.
Competition in the AI Hardware Space
OpenAI isn’t alone in this arena. Other tech giants are already exploring or selling intelligent hardware:
- Meta has seen traction with its Ray-Ban branded smart glasses that offer photo/video capture and integrated connectivity.
- Apple and Google are also rumored to be developing AI-enhanced eyewear and wearable devices.
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