OpenAI is reportedly planning to roll out a series of hardware devices — including a display-less smart speaker, smart glasses, a digital voice recorder, and even a wearable pin. The first device, supposedly already in contract talks with Apple suppliers Luxshare and Goertek, is expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027, and will be pocket-sized and contextually aware.
The project emerges from OpenAI’s partnership with ex-Apple design lead Jony Ive, and the company seems to be aggressively recruiting from Apple’s hardware and supply chain teams. Sources say Apple has raised internal alarms, with some supply-chain meetings disrupted and engineers being lured away.
According to insiders, OpenAI hardware chief Tang Tan is offering prospective Apple staff greater agility, less red tape, and more room for impact. If these devices do launch as planned, it could mark the start of a broader shift for OpenAI from software into bespoke consumer hardware.
