Axios and several other reports say the device is being developed in collaboration with Jony Ive, the former Apple design chief, following OpenAI’s $6.5 billion all-stock acquisition of Ive’s AI hardware startup, io, in 2025. The project brings together a team of hardware, manufacturing, and industrial design specialists with the goal of creating a new category of AI-powered computers.

While OpenAI has not released official product specifications, the device has been described as a screen-free, voice-first AI companion designed for ambient interaction. Rather than relying on traditional apps or displays, the product is expected to operate primarily through voice commands and contextual awareness.

Reports indicate the device may feature a compact, wearable form factor, potentially resembling a small pod or pen-shaped object weighing roughly 10 to 15 grams. It is expected to be portable enough to fit in a pocket, clip onto clothing, or be worn on a neck strap.

Proposed capabilities include an integrated microphone and camera to support environmental awareness and contextual understanding. The device may also be able to convert handwritten notes into text and synchronize information with ChatGPT, though OpenAI has not formally confirmed any of these features.

Internally, the device has reportedly carried codenames such as “Gumdrop” or “Sweetpea.” OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has characterized the product as “shockingly simple” and has stated it is not intended to replace smartphones. Instead, it is positioned as a complementary “third core device” alongside phones and laptops.

Design philosophy has reportedly emphasized minimalism and ease of use, with Ive describing the goal as creating a product users interact with instinctively. However, challenges related to personality design, privacy considerations, and computing infrastructure may affect production timelines.

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Although early ambitions reportedly included producing up to 100 million units rapidly, full commercial availability could extend into 2027. OpenAI policy chief Chris Lehane identified hardware devices as a major focus for 2026 during remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Jan. 19, 2026, noting that while an unveiling is planned, sales timing has not been finalized.

On the manufacturing side, OpenAI has reportedly selected Foxconn as its exclusive production partner, moving away from earlier plans involving China-based Luxshare. Manufacturing is expected to take place in Vietnam or the United States, reflecting a preference for a diversified supply chain.

The consumer device is part of OpenAI’s broader hardware strategy, which could eventually include products such as smart glasses or AI-enabled speakers. Pricing, final specifications, and exact release dates have not been disclosed, and the company has indicated additional announcements are expected before the end of the year.

• What is OpenAI launching in 2026?
  OpenAI is reportedly planning to debut its first consumer hardware device focused on voice-first AI interaction.
• Who is designing OpenAI’s hardware device?
  The device is being developed in collaboration with Jony Ive, following OpenAI’s acquisition of his startup, io.
• Will the device replace smartphones?
  OpenAI has said the product is intended to complement phones and laptops, not replace them. No one truly knows what the machine will look like, and most of the rumors are merely speculation.
• Where will the device be manufactured?
  OpenAI has selected Foxconn as its manufacturer, with production likely in Vietnam or the United States.

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