OpenAI plans to launch its first hardware product: a mobile smart speaker positioned as an AI companion assistant

Kuai Technology reported on July 15 that according to media reports, OpenAI’s highly anticipated first hardware device will be a removable, screen-less smart speaker, positioned as a new home computer in the artificial intelligence era. This product is still under development and is positioned as a home AI companion assistant with human characteristics. It will help users control smart home devices, play media content, answer questions, send and receive messages, and invoke the rich functions of ChatGPT. However, the hardware layout of OpenAI has encountered resistance. Apple last week sued OpenAI for stealing trade secrets. OpenAI believes that the device is significantly different from any product currently sold by Apple and is unlikely to infringe on the iPhone maker's trade secrets. According to reports, the OpenAI hardware department is developing about five different products at the same time, but plans to use this speaker as a starting point to make it the physical embodiment of ChatGPT. The company aims to release the product within this year and make it officially available in 2027. However, this timetable may be adjusted due to legal proceedings - Apple is seeking an injunction against the OpenAI hardware business, and subsequent progress remains to be seen.