OpenAI’s hardware development is reportedly being advanced faster than initially expected. According to reports, the San Francisco–based artificial intelligence company may unveil its first AI-powered device by the end of this year. While no official confirmation has been provided by the company, the device is widely believed to be an audio-focused wearable.

However, the device is not expected to be released commercially this year. As per reports, market availability is likely to take place in early 2027. It has also been indicated that work is currently being carried out on three separate hardware products simultaneously.

 

Possible Hardware Showcase Planned for 2026

According to an Axios report, a launch-style event is being planned in the second half of this year, during which OpenAI’s first hardware product could be showcased. The information was shared by OpenAI’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, Chris Lehane, who stated that the company is “on track” to reveal its first AI device within the year. No specific launch date, however, has been disclosed.

 

Multiple Devices Under Development With Jony Ive

Speculation surrounding OpenAI’s hardware ambitions has been ongoing for some time. Through its collaboration with renowned designer Jony Ive, development is reportedly being carried out on three different devices. One of these is believed to be a wearable device, despite earlier denials from CEO Sam Altman.

In addition, a tabletop device that is expected to function entirely through voice commands is said to be in development. A third product, described as an AI-powered pen, has also been rumored. At present, detailed information regarding the features and capabilities of these devices has not been made public.

 

Manufacturing Plans and Vendor Selection

In December 2025, reports suggested that the project had reached the vendor selection stage. It was indicated that once the manufacturing partner and production location were finalized, mass production would be initiated.

At the time, it was reported that Foxconn had been selected over Luxshare as the manufacturing partner, with Vietnam chosen as the production hub for the upcoming hardware devices.

 

Design Team Strengthened With Industry Talent

Separately, a report by 9to5Mac revealed that Janum Trivedi has been hired by the OpenAI–Jony Ive design team. Trivedi previously worked as an interface designer at Apple between 2019 and 2021. During that period, contributions were made to several major features, including Split View, multitasking drag-and-drop, pointer gestures, and other interface elements introduced with iPadOS 15.

In addition to Apple, Trivedi has also worked with Netflix, The Browser Company, and most recently, Airbnb.