OpenAI's hardware strategy is beginning to take a more defined shape. Following its initial forays into desktop accessories like the Codex Micro programmable keyboard, new details have emerged about its first standalone home device. According to a report published by Bloomberg and picked up by TechCrunch, the company is working on a screenless , circular smart speaker designed to act as the physical home version of ChatGPT.
The device is being developed in collaboration with LoveFrom, the design studio founded by former Apple design director Jony Ive, with a planned release in 2027. Sources indicate that the device will be positioned in the high-end range with an estimated price of between $300 and $400. This price point places it significantly above typical alternatives in the sector, such as Amazon's Echo line, whose models usually range from $40 to $240.
Circular metallic design, high price, and moving components
Regarding its exterior appearance, the product will feature a geometric design similar to a circle and will be made of high-quality metal. This shape, which will be perforated in the center, aims to make it easy for users to move it comfortably between different rooms in the house, such as the nightstand, kitchen, or desk. The casing will offer a premium metallic finish intended to set it apart from traditional plastic speakers.
One of the most unique aspects of the project lies in the inclusion of active mechanical elements within the structure itself. Apparently, the chassis will integrate mechanical parts capable of physical movement to react expressively to voice interactions, complementing the home camera and the array of sensors responsible for analyzing the environment. OpenAI's main objective with this deployment is to more seamlessly integrate its language models into users' daily routines. However, the home automation sector has historically been characterized by narrow profit margins and low direct profitability. The high price expected for this device will undoubtedly act as a barrier to convincing consumers to purchase a dedicated physical assistant instead of using one they already own, namely their smartphone.
Litigation with Apple and market challenges for artificial intelligence hardware
The launch of this product also comes amid growing legal pressure against the startup. Apple has initiated legal action against OpenAI, accusing it of misappropriating trade secrets. Apple alleges that its lawsuit and the launch of its first device stem from the hiring of former Apple engineers and executives to transfer unannounced hardware specifications. These legal tensions surrounding talent drain add complexity to an already highly regulated development process.
Despite legal battles and the distance to its commercial launch, the company continues to strengthen its physical product division. The speaker's debut in 2027 will determine the company's viability in hardware, serving as a litmus test to assess whether an ecosystem driven exclusively by conversational AI can compete in the consumer electronics market.
Finally, it's worth noting that the device will have an integrated battery for wireless operation and can be used in multiple positions, either in the user's hand or on a countertop. It will also include lights to indicate when it's listening and a system of cameras and sensors to capture its surroundings. All of this is intended to offer an experience closer to human conversation, learning from the user's routines over time. The company hopes that this first step in hardware will pave the way for a future family of devices, with the ultimate ambition of creating a product that could one day replace the smartphone.