OpenAI targets 2026 launch for first consumer AI hardware

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Yaroslav Dmytrenko

20.01.2026

OpenAI targets 2026 launch for first consumer AI hardware — OpenAI and Jony Ive prepare AI device beyond smartphones

OpenAI has once again intrigued the world with hints about the launch of its first hardware device, expected in 2026. OpenAI’s Chief Global Affairs Officer Christopher Lehane described “devices” as one of the company’s key strategic directions, without specifying the type of gadget or the start of sales.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026, Lehane said he views the integration of AI into devices as a near-term innovation that will embed artificial intelligence into people’s everyday tools and gadgets.

According to Lehane, OpenAI plans to release its first hardware product in the second half of 2026.

“I think toward the end of the year you’ll see AI in devices. It’s well known that we are working with Jony Ive, the creator of the iPhone, on a device, and there will be a lot more exciting developments ahead,” Lehane said.

As reported by Cryptopolitan, after OpenAI completed its $6.5 billion acquisition in July 2025 of a design studio founded by former Apple chief designer Sir Jonathan “Jony” Ive, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has repeatedly hinted at the creation of a simple, AI-powered device. He has also called Ive—the designer behind iconic Apple products such as the iPhone, iPad, iPod, and MacBook Air—the greatest designer in the world.

What is the “Greatest designer” creating?

Some reports suggest that the company is developing small, screenless wearable devices designed for conversational interaction. Users speculate that it could be a pocket-sized, pen-like device reminiscent of the iPod Shuffle, using cameras and microphones to perform AI tasks such as note-taking.

Others suggest an egg-shaped device codenamed “Sweetpea,” featuring always-on ChatGPT for voice interaction and a 2-nanometer chip. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has previously described the product as “quieter” than a smartphone and simple to use.

Altman has said the company’s goal is to move beyond the smartphone era toward what it calls “ubiquitous computing.” He explained that lightweight wearable devices would interpret and process information about the surrounding world in real time—answering questions and analyzing what they see and hear—without the friction of traditional screens or keyboards.

According to Lehane, hardware devices are among OpenAI’s top priorities for 2026, with further updates expected later this year. However, it appears the company will first unveil the product to consumers, with commercial sales likely to begin the following year.

As we wrote, OpenAI prepares for IPO: Why ChatGPT developer seeks public status

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