OpenAI could soon no longer just stand for AI software. According to reports, the company is working with former Apple design boss Jonathan Ive on several of its own hardware products. The focus of the plans is apparently a particularly intelligent smart home speaker with a camera and personalized AI functions. The market launch is scheduled for 2027 at the earliest – at a price significantly higher than classic entry-level models.
- Smart home speaker with camera and facial recognition
- Priced between 200 and 300 US dollars
- Proactive AI functions based on ChatGPT planned
- Other devices such as smart lamps and AI glasses in development
Smart home speaker at the heart of the OpenAI hardware offensive
OpenAI’s planned hardware offensive is apparently taking shape. After the company acquired the AI start-up io from former Jonathan Ive for around 6.5 billion US dollars last year, there are increasing indications that the company is planning its own product line. The focus is on a smart home speaker that should clearly stand out from established models in terms of functionality.
Unlike traditional voice assistant devices, the speaker is to be equipped with an integrated camera. This could enable facial recognition in order to tailor ChatGPT’s responses to different people in the household. This would allow the device to provide personalized information – such as appointments, reminders or context-dependent recommendations.
The device is expected to cost between 200 and 300 US dollars. This would position it in the premium segment and compete directly with models such as the Amazon Echo Studio. Compared to the cheaper Apple HomePod mini, the price would be significantly higher, which suggests more sophisticated hardware and AI features.
In addition to reactive voice commands, the speaker is also designed to act proactively. It is conceivable that it could provide information about upcoming appointments or recommendations for daily routines – for example, suggesting an earlier bedtime for a morning meeting. These functions would integrate AI more strongly into everyday life and go beyond traditional voice control.
AI ecosystem with loudspeaker, wearable and smart lighting
However, according to current reports, the smart home speaker is only one component of a larger strategy. A wearable AI gadget that also integrates cameras, microphones and speakers, but deliberately dispenses with a display, is being touted as a possible flagship product. The aim could be to achieve the most natural, voice-based interaction possible with ChatGPT – even on the move.
A smart lamp and AI-supported glasses are also said to be in development. Both products are therefore still at an early stage, with a market launch expected in 2028 at the earliest. The timing indicates that OpenAI wants to establish an entire AI ecosystem in which hardware and software are closely interlinked.
This step seems plausible against the backdrop of growing competition in the AI market. While companies such as Apple, Google and Amazon are deeply integrating their assistants into existing hardware, OpenAI could gain more control over the user experience, data usage and range of functions through its own devices. The combination of Jonathan Ive’s design expertise and OpenAI’s AI expertise would enable a clear differentiation.
Conclusion
The planned smart home speaker could mark the start of a comprehensive hardware offensive by OpenAI. With a camera, personalized AI and proactive functions, the device would clearly stand out from the existing smart speaker market. The market launch is expected for February 2027 at the earliest, with a price of between 200 and 300 US dollars. Official confirmations are still pending, but the strategic direction seems quite plausible given the market dynamics in the AI sector.
