Updated sources say the company is researching smart speakers, smart lights and considering AI glasses, with speakers expected to be launched as early as early as early 2027.
OpenAI's smart speaker is integrated with a camera, capable of learning information about users and the surrounding environment. The device will have facial recognition similar to Face ID, allowing users to make purchases directly. Thanks to AI integration, users can ask questions and make requests like with a virtual assistant.
In an internal presentation, OpenAI staff were told that the speaker will observe users and proactively suggest actions to support achieving goals, such as suggesting going to bed early before a meeting the next morning.
Although expected to open the "next chapter" after the smartphone era, OpenAI's hardware ambition remains a big mystery. The smart home device market is already crowded with the presence of "giants" like Apple or Google, while users are increasingly cautious about devices capable of observing and collecting context data.
The success of the AI speaker is therefore not only in the design bearing the Jony Ive mark, but also depends on how OpenAI convinces users to trust privacy and the practical value that the device brings.
If the promises of a gentle assistant who does not cause trouble but still proactively supports users when needed can be realized, this could be a step to reshape how people interact with artificial intelligence in daily life.
