OpenAI is reportedly accelerating its work on audio AI as it prepares to launch a new personal device expected in about a year.
The company has merged several engineering, product, and research teams over the past two months to overhaul its audio models.
A tipster recently shared that OpenAI and Ive's are working on a device that could be a pen or “a ‘to-go’ audio device.
OpenAI is reportedly accelerating its work on audio AI as it prepares to launch a new personal device expected in about a year. According to Information, the company has merged several engineering, product, and research teams over the past two months to overhaul its audio models, signalling a major shift toward voice-first technology.
SurveyAt the centre of this push is a new audio model planned for early 2026. The model is expected to sound more natural, deal with interruptions smoothly, and even speak while a user is talking, which today’s AI systems still struggle with. OpenAI is also said to be exploring a lineup of devices, possibly including screenless speakers or smart glasses, designed to act more like companions than traditional gadgets.
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This move fits into a much broader trend across the tech industry. Many companies now believe audio will become the main way people interact with technology, with screens fading into the background. Voice assistants are already common, with smart speakers used in more than a third of US homes, reports TechCrunch.
Former Apple design chief Jony Ive, now involved in OpenAI’s hardware efforts through the company’s acquisition of his firm io, sees audio-first design as a way to reduce screen addiction and “right the wrongs” of past consumer devices.
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In related news, a tipster recently shared that OpenAI and Ive’s are working on a device that could be a pen or “a ‘to-go’ audio device.” The tipster also claimed that the gadget will likely be manufactured by Foxconn, the same company that builds iPhones.
Also read: After OpenAI’s code red, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella enters into founder mode to beat AI rivals
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Ayushi Jain
Ayushi works as Chief Copy Editor at Digit, covering everything from breaking tech news to in-depth smartphone reviews. Prior to Digit, she was part of the editorial team at IANS. View Full Profile
