OpenAI Will Reportedly Unveil Its First AI Device Later This Year

OpenAI appears to be moving faster than expected in its hardware ambitions. According to recent reports, the San Francisco-based artificial intelligence giant is planning to unveil its first AI device later this year, marking a major strategic shift for the ChatGPT-maker beyond software and services.

While details about the device remain limited, it is reportedly an audio-focused wearable, and part of a broader hardware roadmap that includes multiple AI-powered gadgets. However, despite the expected unveiling in 2026, the device is not expected to ship until early 2027.

OpenAI Could Showcase Its First AI Device in 2026

Axios Report Reveals Timeline

According to an Axios report, OpenAI is preparing for an unveiling event for its first-ever hardware product in the second half of this year. The information was confirmed by Chris Lehane, OpenAI’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, who stated that the company was “on track” to reveal its first AI device later this year.

However, Lehane did not provide a specific launch or availability date for the hardware.

What Kind of AI Device Is OpenAI Working On?

Rumoured Audio-Focused Wearable

Although OpenAI has not officially revealed the nature of its first hardware product, industry rumours suggest it may be an audio-centric wearable designed around voice-based AI interaction.

This would align with OpenAI’s broader push toward natural, conversational interfaces, building on the success of ChatGPT’s voice capabilities.

OpenAI-Jony Ive Collaboration: Three Devices in Development

Multiple Gadgets Reportedly in the Pipeline

Speculation around OpenAI’s hardware efforts has intensified since reports emerged about its collaboration with Jony Ive, the legendary former Apple designer.

According to industry leaks:

• One device is believed to be a wearable

• Another is said to be a tabletop AI device that works entirely via voice commands

• A third product is rumoured to be an AI Pen

While OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has previously denied claims related to wearables, reports continue to suggest that three different gadgets are currently in development. At this stage, the exact functionality and user experience of these devices remain unclear.

Manufacturing Plans and Production Timeline

Vendor Selection Reportedly Completed

In December 2025, a separate rumour claimed that OpenAI’s hardware projects had reached the vendor selection stage. According to that report:

• OpenAI and Jony Ive’s team allegedly selected Foxconn over Luxshare

• Vietnam was chosen as the production location

Once manufacturing partners and facilities are finalised, the hardware is expected to move into mass production, paving the way for a commercial launch in early 2027.

Key Design Hire Strengthens Hardware Push

Former Apple Designer Joins the Team

Adding further credibility to OpenAI’s hardware ambitions, a 9to5Mac report revealed that the OpenAI-Ive design team hired Janum Trivedi, a former Apple interface designer.

Trivedi previously worked at Apple between 2019 and 2021, where he contributed to major iPadOS features such as:

• Split View

• Multitasking Drag & Drop

• iPad Pointer Gestures

• Other interface elements in iPadOS 15

He has also worked with Netflix, The Browser Company, and most recently Airbnb, bringing deep expertise in user experience and interface design.

Why OpenAI’s Hardware Entry Matters

A Strategic Shift Beyond Software

OpenAI’s move into hardware signals a significant evolution in how the company envisions AI interacting with users. Instead of relying solely on smartphones, PCs, or third-party platforms, OpenAI appears keen to build AI-first devices designed from the ground up around voice, context, and intelligence.

If successful, OpenAI’s hardware could challenge existing paradigms set by smartphones, smart speakers, and wearables.

Final Takeaway

With an unveiling expected later this year and shipping likely in early 2027, OpenAI’s first AI device represents one of the most closely watched hardware experiments in the tech industry. Backed by Jony Ive’s design influence, top-tier talent, and OpenAI’s AI leadership, the upcoming gadgets could redefine how users interact with artificial intelligence in daily life.