OpenAI to Launch AI Speaker and Smart Glasses by 2026–27: A Paradigm Shift in Human-AI Interaction
For years, OpenAI has been synonymous with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence. From the global adoption of ChatGPT to the advancement of large language models, the company has reshaped how people interact with machines. Yet, in 2026–27, OpenAI is preparing for a bold new chapter—a leap from software into hardware.
The AI pioneer has confirmed plans to launch its first consumer devices: a screenless AI-powered smart speaker and AI-driven smart glasses. Both products are expected to redefine how we engage with technology by moving beyond screens and embedding artificial intelligence into daily life.
This ambitious move follows OpenAI’s $6.5 billion acquisition of io Products, a hardware startup founded by legendary Apple designer Jony Ive and his creative collective LoveFrom. Ive, widely credited with shaping the design of the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook, brings decades of design leadership into OpenAI’s vision for human-computer interaction.
If successful, OpenAI’s hardware launch could spark a revolution, merging cutting-edge AI software with intuitive physical products. Let’s explore the details, strategy, and implications of this move.
OpenAI and Jony Ive: A Groundbreaking Partnership
The collaboration between Sam Altman (CEO of OpenAI) and Jony Ive (former Apple Chief Design Officer) has been quietly in development for two years. What began as tentative experiments in 2024 has grown into a full-scale hardware initiative that could rival Apple, Google, and Meta in the race for AI-driven consumer devices.
The screenless smart speaker—a central product in this lineup—is being described as a true AI companion. Unlike Amazon Alexa or Google Nest, it won’t rely on a touchscreen or simple voice commands. Instead, it is designed to leverage generative AI, enabling users to hold natural conversations, perform complex tasks, and experience AI in an ambient, screen-free way.
Alongside the smart speaker, OpenAI is also working on:
- AI-powered smart glasses
- A digital voice recorder
- A wearable AI pin
Together, these devices form part of a unified ecosystem aimed at integrating AI seamlessly into daily life, reducing screen dependency, and opening up new ways to interact with digital intelligence.
Why Hardware? The Strategic Reason Behind the Move
At first glance, it may seem strange for OpenAI—a company that dominates the AI software industry—to dive into the fiercely competitive hardware market. But the decision makes perfect sense when viewed through the lens of user experience and market control.
Big Tech companies like Apple, Google, Meta, and Amazon are racing to define the next generation of computing interfaces. Whether through smart glasses, wearables, or voice-first devices, the future of AI isn’t just about powerful models—it’s about who controls the experience layer.
If OpenAI stayed solely a software provider, it risked being overshadowed by hardware platforms that own the consumer relationship. By controlling both AI and hardware, OpenAI ensures that its technology is not merely a back-end utility but a frontline experience in people’s lives.
Apple’s Playbook: Supply Chain and Manufacturing
OpenAI is borrowing heavily from Apple’s proven strategy in building iconic devices. The company has secured Luxshare, a leading Apple manufacturing partner, to produce at least one of its devices. Another Apple supplier, Goertek, is reportedly in talks to handle speaker modules.
By leveraging existing Apple-focused supply chains, OpenAI gains:
- Manufacturing expertise without starting from scratch.
- Economies of scale to compete with rivals.
- Quality assurance from facilities that have built billions of iPhones, AirPods, and Apple Watches.
Additionally, OpenAI has aggressively recruited former Apple employees, especially from product design, human interface, audio engineering, and wearables divisions. As of 2025, at least 25 ex-Apple professionals have joined the team, bringing insider knowledge of what it takes to build world-class consumer hardware.
The Smart Speaker: AI Without Screens
The headline product is expected to be a screenless smart speaker that functions as a conversational AI assistant. Unlike current smart speakers that depend heavily on apps and scripted commands, OpenAI’s device will:
- Use ChatGPT-like natural dialogue.
- Understand complex multi-step instructions.
- Integrate into everyday life as a proactive companion rather than a passive tool.
The absence of a screen is bold in a world dominated by visual interfaces. But it signals OpenAI’s belief that voice-first and AI-first computing will dominate the future. Instead of looking at a screen, users will engage AI naturally—through voice, context, and environment.
This could make the device a true ambient intelligence hub for homes, offices, and personal spaces.
Smart Glasses and Wearables: Beyond Smartphones
While the smart speaker is the first step, AI smart glasses may be the most disruptive product in OpenAI’s roadmap. These glasses are envisioned as lightweight, stylish, and powered by conversational AI.
Potential features could include:
- Real-time language translation.
- Context-aware reminders and notifications.
- Seamless access to AI without pulling out a phone.
- Voice and gesture controls for hands-free use.
In addition, the rumored AI pin and voice recorder highlight OpenAI’s commitment to creating an ecosystem of wearables that embed AI into everyday actions. These devices move beyond entertainment—they aim to transform productivity, learning, and human connection.
The Future of Human-AI Interaction
The partnership between OpenAI and Jony Ive reflects a paradigm shift in human-computer interaction. For decades, interaction has been limited to keyboards, mice, and touchscreens. The next wave of computing—ambient AI—will allow us to interact through:
- Voice conversations.
- Gestures and natural movements.
- Contextual intelligence that anticipates needs.
This transition aligns with the broader industry vision of post-smartphone computing. Instead of constantly staring at screens, users will live in environments where AI is embedded, intuitive, and invisible.
Risks and Challenges Ahead
Despite the excitement, OpenAI faces significant hurdles:
- Fierce Competition
Apple is working on Vision Pro and AR glasses, Meta has its Ray-Ban Stories, Amazon dominates smart speakers, and Google continues to innovate in wearables. - Hardware Execution
Unlike software, hardware requires massive investments, flawless supply chain execution, and world-class industrial design. - User Adoption
Convincing consumers to shift from screen-first to screen-free AI interaction is no small task. - Privacy and Trust
Voice-first devices raise concerns about surveillance, data security, and misuse of personal information. OpenAI must establish robust privacy safeguards to win consumer trust.
Why This Matters for the Future
If successful, OpenAI’s hardware could:
- Revolutionize AI adoption by making it accessible outside screens.
- Challenge tech giants on their own turf.
- Redefine productivity by making AI more natural and integrated.
- Shape culture, much like the iPhone did in 2007.
For businesses, this means preparing for a world where AI isn’t just an app, but an environment. For consumers, it means a seamless AI-powered lifestyle.
FAQs
1. What devices is OpenAI launching?
OpenAI is set to launch a screenless smart speaker, AI smart glasses, a voice recorder, and a wearable AI pin between 2026–27.
2. Who is Jony Ive and why is he involved?
Jony Ive is Apple’s former Chief Design Officer, credited with creating the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook. He now leads OpenAI’s hardware design through io Products and LoveFrom.
3. Why is OpenAI moving into hardware?
To control both the AI software and user experience, ensuring OpenAI isn’t just a back-end API provider but a consumer-facing ecosystem.
4. Who will manufacture OpenAI’s devices?
Apple’s supply chain partners Luxshare and Goertek are involved, providing proven expertise in large-scale hardware production.
5. How will OpenAI’s smart speaker differ from Alexa or Google Home?
Unlike traditional assistants, OpenAI’s device will leverage conversational AI to perform complex, human-like interactions without relying on pre-scripted commands.
6. What risks does OpenAI face in hardware?
Major challenges include competition from tech giants, supply chain execution, user adoption, and privacy concerns.
7. When will these devices launch?
The first products are expected in late 2026 or early 2027.
Final Thoughts
OpenAI’s entry into hardware marks a historic turning point in AI’s evolution. With Jony Ive’s design genius, Apple’s supply chain, and OpenAI’s AI leadership, the company has assembled the perfect formula for innovation.
The road won’t be easy—competition is fierce, risks are high, and consumer trust must be earned. But if OpenAI succeeds, its devices could redefine human-AI interaction, much like the iPhone redefined mobile computing.
In 2026–27, the world may witness the dawn of a new era where AI is not just on our screens, but in our homes, glasses, and even the clothes we wear.