OpenAI is moving beyond software and moving into consumer hardware. According to the reports, the company is working on a new device powered by ChatGPT that is designed for home use. Instead of making another smartphone or a regular smart speaker, OpenAI is reportedly building a screen-free AI companion that can interact with people in a more natural and personal way. Bloomberg reports that the project has been described inside the company as a “humanlike AI companion that lives in the home.”
The device is expected to let users control smart home appliances, play music, answer questions and manage messages using ChatGPT. It is also expected to include a rechargeable battery, a camera, sensors and a more advanced voice assistant called GPT-Live. Reports say OpenAI plans to reveal the device later this year, with a possible launch in 2027 if legal issues do not cause delays.
The project is part of OpenAI’s growing hardware plans after its reported US$6.5 billion acquisition of Io Products, a startup co-founded by former Apple designer Jony Ive. OpenAI later confirmed that the io Products team had joined the company, while Ive and his design firm, LoveFrom, stayed independent and continued to work on OpenAI’s product designs.
However, the project is facing legal challenges. In July 2026, Apple sued OpenAI and io Products, claiming that former Apple employees shared confidential hardware information. Apple is seeking damages and wants the court to stop the use of its alleged trade secrets. OpenAI has denied the claims.
