OpenAI’s long-rumoured consumer hardware appears to be taking shape. Instead of launching a smartphone, the company is reportedly working on a portable AI-powered smart speaker designed to act as a personal companion. The device is said to blend conversational AI with hardware that can move and interact more naturally.
OpenAI’s first hardware could be an AI companion
According to Bloomberg, OpenAI is developing a compact, screenless smart speaker that users can carry from one room to another. The device is expected to include a rechargeable battery, cameras, and onboard sensors that help it understand its surroundings and respond more intelligently. Unlike conventional smart speakers, it is reportedly being designed to develop a personality through mechanical elements that allow it to move, making interactions feel more lifelike.
The speaker is said to run on GPT-Live, OpenAI’s conversational voice technology that can listen and respond in real time. It could perform familiar smart speaker tasks such as controlling connected home devices, playing music, answering questions and reading messages. The report also claims it will gradually learn about its owner by accessing personal information, allowing it to anticipate requests and deliver more personalised responses over time.
The hardware is reportedly being developed with help from former Apple executives, including members of Jony Ive’s LoveFrom design studio. While the product is expected to arrive in 2027, some reports suggest OpenAI could reveal more details later this year. Pricing has not been confirmed, although one report estimates it could cost between $200 to $300.
The project is also facing legal uncertainty following Apple’s trade secret lawsuit against OpenAI. Apple has alleged that OpenAI hired key employees and misused confidential information, claims that OpenAI has denied. Despite the ongoing dispute, the company reportedly believes its AI speaker is significantly different from Apple’s planned smart home products.
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