The latest
OpenAI is developing a battery-powered AI device roughly the size of a hockey puck, with a doughnut-like form and components that move during conversations, according to people familiar with the confidential work. The screenless smart speaker is slated for availability in 2027 and is intended to be carried around a home in one hand. OpenAI has discussed charging $300 to $400, the people said, while a company representative declined to comment on its product plans.
Details
- Portable format: The circular device is designed to work while held or placed on a nightstand or kitchen counter. Its casing is expected to use premium materials, including high-quality metal, placing it above most smart speakers on price but below a standard iPhone.
- Listening hardware: It would include speaker grilles, microphones and lights showing when it is listening. Cameras and other sensors would perceive the surrounding environment and feed visual information to the AI, allowing interactions to draw on more than spoken commands.
- AI companion: The experience is expected to resemble ChatGPT’s voice mode but use more advanced models for humanlike interaction. OpenAI expects the system to learn about a user over time, tailor conversations and help complete tasks throughout the day, the sources said.
- Moving response: Self-moving components are meant to signal when the device is responding and give it more personality than stationary speakers. OpenAI plans to position the product as an “AI-first computer,” rather than a conventional voice assistant.
- Ive collaboration: Jony Ive’s LoveFrom studio collaborated on the design. Ive, known for work on the iPhone, iPad, iPod and Apple Watch, also co-founded a hardware startup acquired by OpenAI last year. The speaker is envisioned as the first step toward a wider device family.
- Apple dispute: Apple alleges OpenAI sought a confidential metal-finishing technique through a longtime Apple supplier. OpenAI denies stealing intellectual property, called the allegation vague and generalized, and sought dismissal. Sources said an internal review found the device uses no Apple trade secrets. It remains unclear whether Apple’s claim concerns this speaker, another product or a discarded concept.
Background
Amazon and Google dominate smart speakers, while Apple’s HomePod line lacks a battery-powered model. OpenAI views the speaker as a lower-risk entry into always-on hardware than smart glasses, which have prompted privacy concerns. Its longer-term ambition is to build devices that could eventually replace some smartphone functions.
What’s next
OpenAI has sought to unveil the product in 2026 before making it available in 2027. The immediate indicator is the court’s decision on Apple’s requested injunction; Bloomberg reported that an order against OpenAI could complicate the release. Final pricing and specifications also remain unconfirmed.
