OpenAI Reportedly Developing AI Smart Speaker for 2027 Launch

OpenAI is reportedly preparing to enter the consumer hardware market with its first dedicated device, an AI-powered smart speaker designed to compete with products from Amazon, Apple and Google. According to a Bloomberg report citing people familiar with the project, the device will feature an AI companion powered by ChatGPT that can answer questions, play media, respond to messages and manage connected home devices.

The AI assistant is expected to become increasingly personalized over time by learning about its owner and adapting to individual habits and preferences. Bloomberg reported that OpenAI envisions the companion as anticipating user needs and acting as a knowledgeable assistant by drawing on personal information, including emails, to deliver more relevant interactions.

The device is also expected to feature moving mechanical components designed to give it a more lifelike presence rather than appearing as a static voice assistant. It will reportedly include a built-in camera, multiple sensors and an advanced version of ChatGPT Voice Mode, allowing it to better understand its surroundings and respond more naturally during conversations.

Designed for flexibility, the smart speaker is expected to operate either from a fixed location when plugged in or throughout the home using a rechargeable battery. Bloomberg reported that OpenAI is targeting a 2027 launch, although the schedule could change as the company faces an ongoing legal dispute with Apple over alleged trade secret theft involving its hardware division.

Bloomberg also reported that OpenAI is developing approximately five consumer hardware products, including a long-term effort to create an AI device that could eventually replace the smartphone.

The company’s hardware ambitions accelerated after its $6.4 billion acquisition of io Products last year, which brought former Apple Chief Design Officer Jony Ive to OpenAI. Other former Apple executives, including Tang Tan and engineer Chang Liu, also joined the company. Apple has alleged in its lawsuit that Tan coordinated efforts to obtain confidential information about future Apple products and that Liu took an Apple laptop containing sensitive data before leaving the company. Apple further claims OpenAI has hired more than 400 former Apple employees. OpenAI has said it takes Apple’s allegations “seriously” but is not “aware of any evidence that this complaint has merit.” Apple is seeking damages and an order preventing OpenAI from using the disputed confidential information.