OpenAI is reportedly exploring the development of an AI device, potentially in collaboration with Jony Ive, Apple’s former chief design officer. According to a report from The Information, the first concept resembles a smart speaker devoid of a display. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that the company has engaged Luxshare for manufacturing contracts, while also reaching out to Goertek, both of which are known assemblers for Apple, to provide components such as speaker modules for upcoming AI products.
In addition to the speaker-like device, OpenAI is considering other products, including glasses, a digital voice recorder, and a wearable pin. These offerings are being targeted for a launch window stretching from late 2026 into early 2027.
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, previously expressed his vision for a “family of devices” originating from his partnership with Ive. The first product has been described as pocket-sized, contextually aware, and lacking a screen. Recent comments have expanded on the initial vision by revealing potential for additional devices.
While Altman has indicated that the initial device would not consist of glasses, new rumors suggest that smart eyewear may follow after the first product launch. The interest in developing an AI pin is notable, especially since Ive had previously expressed reservations about body-worn devices, criticizing the Humane AI Pin. Additionally, speculation continues around the potential development of an in-ear device, which remains unmentioned in the latest product discussions.
The sources cited by The Information reveal that OpenAI is capitalizing on Apple’s extensive supply chain in China for producing these new devices. Luxshare is a significant assembler of products like iPhones and AirPods, while Goertek specializes in AirPods, HomePods, and Apple Watches. Reports also suggest that Apple recently canceled a crucial meeting with its manufacturing and supply chain teams in China, possibly due to apprehensions about losing executives to OpenAI during this critical transition period.
Since the announcement of OpenAI’s partnership with Ive’s startup, an increasing number of Apple employees involved in consumer hardware have made the move to OpenAI. Tang Tan, OpenAI’s current chief hardware officer and a former leader in Apple product design, has assured those shifting from Apple that they will experience a more collaborative and less bureaucratic environment at OpenAI, as relayed by an insider.
