SAN FRANCISCO: OpenAI develops smart speaker with integrated camera for February 2027 launch. The company assigns over 200 employees to hardware division. The Information reports details on February 20.
The speaker features facial recognition similar to Apple Face ID for purchase authentication. The device observes users and surroundings to identify objects and suggest actions. An internal presentation shows the speaker recommending early bedtime before morning meetings.
OpenAI prices the device between $200 and $300. The company works with former Apple design chief Jony Ive through his LoveFrom design firm. Ive acquired io Products in May 2025 for $6.5 billion.
The hardware team includes former Apple employees Tang Tan on hardware, Evans Hankey on industrial design, and Scott Cannon on supply chain. Ive makes final calls on design choices. OpenAI employees complain about LoveFrom’s secrecy and slow design revision pace.
OpenAI explores smart glasses for potential 2028 production and a smart lamp prototype. The company cancels products beyond the speaker if early development falters. The devices division launched nine months ago following the io Products acquisition.
The speaker competes with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Previous AI hardware attempts including Humane AI Pin and AI pendants receive criticism. Privacy concerns arise around devices ingesting intimate user data.
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