OpenAI is taking a decisive step beyond the digital space. The company, known for its AI models, is preparing to release its own hardware device — a smart speaker positioned as an "AI companion" for the home.
The key feature of the gadget is not just a voice assistant, but a full-fledged "personality" with a human-like level of interaction. The device is equipped with a camera, sensors for analyzing the environment and context, as well as mechanical elements that allow it to move independently. A built-in battery will enable the speaker to be moved around the home throughout the day.
For maximum personalization, the system will gain access to the owner's correspondence and email. This will allow it to adapt to the user's habits on a deep level. The functionality is based on an advanced version of the GPT-Live voice mode, launched in early July. The device will be able to control the smart home, play media, and respond to messages via ChatGPT.
The design is curated by former Apple chief designer Jony Ive, and other ex-employees who worked on the iPhone and Mac have joined the project. This immediately sets a high bar for quality and minimalism.
The presentation is scheduled for late 2026, with sales starting in 2027. However, the timeline may be adjusted due to a lawsuit filed by Apple on July 10. The company accuses OpenAI of stealing trade secrets, and one of the defendants in the case is Tang Tan — OpenAI's chief hardware officer and former head of iPhone product design.
It is worth noting that the speaker is just one of five gadgets being developed by OpenAI. In July, the Codex Micro mini-keyboard for controlling AI agents went on sale. It is equipped with a confirmation button, a microphone, a model reasoning level regulator, and a stick for selecting skills. Users have access to both clicky and silent switches, as well as a set of 32 replaceable keys.
Let me remind you that in June, OpenAI filed a confidential IPO application, during which the company's valuation could reach $1 trillion.
My analysis: OpenAI is clearly aiming to carve out a niche in "physical AI," where competition from Apple and Amazon so far remains at the level of voice assistants without deep personalization. If the company manages to deliver the promised level of "personality," this could be a breakthrough comparable to the advent of the first iPhone. However, legal risks and high expectations make this project one of the most ambitious and risky in the industry.