Jony Ive's First OpenAI Device Will Be Smart Speaker With Camera, 2027 Launch Planned

Source: MacRumors

Overview

OpenAI is developing a line of AI‑powered hardware devices in partnership with former Apple designer Jony Ive. The first product expected to launch is a smart speaker, with a planned release in early 2027.

Smart Speaker Details

• Integrated camera: Enables facial recognition similar to Apple’s Face ID, allowing the device to identify users and understand its surroundings.
• AI integration: Users can ask questions, make requests, and initiate purchases directly through the speaker.
• Context‑aware assistance: An internal presentation described the speaker as observing users and suggesting actions to help them achieve goals (e.g., recommending an early bedtime before a morning meeting).
• Design philosophy: Ive and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described the prototype as “peaceful,” an “active participant” that isn’t annoying, and a product that “makes people feel joy.”
• Form factor: Described as pocket‑sized, screen‑less, and contextually aware of the user’s environment.

Pricing and Launch Timeline

• Price range: Expected to be between $200 and $300.
• Launch window: Targeted for February 2027 at the earliest.

Other Hardware Projects

• Smart lamp: In development, but not expected to be ready until 2028 or later.
• Smart glasses: Also under consideration, with a similar timeline to the lamp.
• Development stage: Apart from the speaker, OpenAI’s hardware projects are in early stages and could be canceled.

Development Background

• OpenAI acquired Ive’s design firm LoveFrom in May 2025.
• Ive and Altman indicated that a working prototype existed by November 2025.
• LoveFrom provides hardware designs, while OpenAI’s engineers handle the actual product development.
• Internal discussions emphasized a desire for a device without a screen, focusing on a compact, context‑aware form factor.

Sources

• The Information (report on OpenAI hardware roadmap)
• MacRumors (original article)

Tags: Jony Ive, LoveFrom, OpenAI