OpenAI is developing its first dedicated hardware device, collaborating with designer Jony Ive and his team following the acquisition of his startup "io." The project aims to create a "peaceful and calm" AI-centric device, reportedly an audio-based wearable, with varying reports on its projected launch timeline ranging from the second half of the current year to a reveal in late 2026 and general availability in 2027. The initiative seeks to provide OpenAI with greater control over its AI assistant's distribution and features, moving beyond reliance on third-party platforms.
Development and Collaboration
OpenAI acquired Jony Ive's design startup "io" for an reported $6.5 billion. Ive, known for his work on the iPhone, and his team are now involved in the development of OpenAI's inaugural hardware product. The collaboration underscores an effort to integrate design principles with advanced AI technology.
Projected Timelines
Reports regarding the product's timeline have varied. OpenAI's Chief Global Affairs Officer, Chris Lehane, was quoted in one report as indicating a launch in the second half of the current year. However, in another interview with Axios, Lehane specified a target for the product's reveal in the second half of 2026, with general availability potentially extending into 2027.
Further timeline details include:
- In May 2025, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman reportedly told employees that he and Ive aimed to ship 100 million units of the product.
- In November 2026, Altman and Ive confirmed the existence of prototypes for the product and stated that development towards building would commence within two years.
- Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo projected mass production to begin in 2027.
Device Characteristics and Vision
Sam Altman has described a potential device as more "peaceful and calm" than current smartphones, suggesting a screen-free and pocketable form factor. Recent reports indicate the device could be a pair of earbuds, codenamed "Sweet Pea." These earbuds are rumored to feature a unique design and incorporate a custom 2-nanometer processor, enabling them to handle AI tasks locally rather than solely relying on cloud processing.
The device is expected to rely primarily on voice input, aligning with OpenAI's reported enhancements to its audio-based models. The company's motivation for developing its own hardware includes achieving greater control over the AI assistant's development and distribution, potentially offering exclusive and purpose-built features. OpenAI's ChatGPT currently serves nearly a billion weekly users, largely dependent on other devices and platforms for distribution.
Manufacturing and Production Targets
Regarding manufacturing, OpenAI reportedly considered a partnership with China-based Luxshare but may favor Taiwan's Foxconn. Industry analysis has also suggested that assembly and shipping could potentially occur outside China, such as in Vietnam, to address geopolitical considerations.
Production targets have also varied. One report indicates OpenAI aims to ship between 40 to 50 million units in the first year of sales, while Sam Altman has spoken of an intention to ship 100 million units.
Market Context and Challenges
The market for standalone AI hardware devices has presented challenges. Previous products in this category, such as the Humane AI Pin and the Rabbit R1, have faced limited market penetration. Industry observations highlight that new screen-based consumer technology products face difficulties competing with established form factors like smartphones and smartwatches.
However, audio-based devices, including AI voice recorders and AI-enabled earbuds, continue to show potential for expansion, aligning with the reported audio-centric nature of OpenAI's device. Challenges for market entry include integrating with existing operating systems to effectively compete with established devices like Apple's AirPods. Larger technology companies such as Meta and Amazon are also increasing their presence in the wearables sector.