OpenAI Plans AI Devices to Rival Smartphones, Faces Computing Hurdles
Jakarta, Indonesia – OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is aggressively pursuing the development of artificial intelligence-powered devices intended to potentially replace smartphones. The company has reportedly expanded its hardware team to over 200 employees dedicated to this initiative, signaling a significant shift towards tangible AI products.
New Devices in Development
According to a report by The Information, OpenAI is working on a range of AI-based devices, including smart speakers, smart glasses, and smart lights. The first product anticipated to launch is a smart speaker, currently slated for release in February 2027, with a projected price point between $200 and $300 [Reuters].
This smart speaker is rumored to be equipped with a camera, enabling it to gather information about the user and their surroundings.
Smart glasses are likewise in development, though mass production is not expected until 2028.
Strategic Acquisitions and Industry Competition
OpenAI’s foray into hardware was solidified with the acquisition of io Products, a startup founded by former Apple designer Jony Ive, for $6.5 billion [Reuters]. This acquisition demonstrates OpenAI’s commitment to building a dedicated hardware division.
The move places OpenAI in direct competition with tech giants like Google, which recently launched its AI Plus subscription package in Indonesia, offering access to features within Gemini 2.5 Pro [CNN Indonesia].
Challenges in AI Device Development
Despite the ambitious plans, OpenAI faces significant challenges. A primary concern is securing sufficient computing power to run these AI-driven devices. Sources indicate that OpenAI currently lags behind companies like Amazon and Google in terms of computing resources needed for both ChatGPT and the development of new hardware [Reuters].
Other hurdles include developing personalized and engaging AI assistants with appropriate voice and personality characteristics, as well as balancing functionality with user privacy.
Screen-Free Interaction and Future Vision
OpenAI is reportedly aiming to create devices that can interpret and respond to the physical environment through audio and visual commands, potentially offering a screen-free user experience. This vision aligns with a broader trend towards more intuitive and immersive AI interactions.