OpenAI Plans to Launch First Device, Possibly Headphones, in 2026

Last year, OpenAI generated significant attention in the hardware sector by acquiring io, a startup founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive. While the company has remained tight-lipped about upcoming products, OpenAI's Global Affairs Director, Chris Lehane, indicated during an Axios-hosted panel at Davos that the AI startup plans to unveil its first hardware device in the second half of this year.

In November, Altman described the potential device as more "peaceful and serene" than an iPhone. Earlier reports suggest the company aims to create a screenless, pocket-sized gadget.

Although the company has not disclosed specifics, recent reports from Asian publications and leakers suggest OpenAI's first device could be a pair of earbuds. Codenamed "Sweet Pea," the device is said to feature a unique design distinct from existing earbuds. It may utilize a custom 2-nanometer processor and handle AI tasks locally rather than sending requests to the cloud.

An independent report from a major Taiwanese newspaper indicates that OpenAI is exploring manufacturing partnerships with China's Luxshare Precision but might ultimately prefer Taiwan's Foxconn. The report also states that OpenAI plans to ship 40 to 50 million units in the first year of sales.

OpenAI's ChatGPT boasts nearly a billion weekly users, but the company currently relies on other devices and platforms for distribution. With its own hardware, OpenAI could seek greater control over the development and distribution of its AI assistant, potentially launching exclusive and specially designed features.

However, without deep integration into an operating system, displacing established earbuds like AirPods in users' daily lives will be challenging.

So far, there hasn't been a standout success story for an AI device. Last year, the Humane Pin was sold to HP. Rabbit is progressing slowly after its hype in early 2024. The Friend AI companion necklace faced swift backlash over its marketing strategy.

Nevertheless, major tech companies are advancing into the wearable space. Meta's Ray-Ban glasses continue to improve in scope and scale to the point where the Facebook parent company cannot meet demand. Amazon recently acquired Bee, an AI meeting recorder that can also function as a companion.