The expected price between $200 (about Rs 18,000) and $300 (about Rs 27,000).
Facial recognition for purchases reportedly in development.
Its launch unlikely before March 2027.
Although there were some speculations that the first OpenAI hardware would be an advanced earbud codenamed ‘Sweet Pea’, the latest news is that the debut device could be a smart speaker with a built-in camera. The Information reports that this OpenAI speaker will be able to recognise objects placed nearby and understand conversations in its vicinity, marking a shift from purely text-based AI tools to ambient, always-aware computing. Here’s everything else we know at the moment.
SurveyOpenAI smart speaker: Details
OpenAI smart speaker could be priced between $200 (about Rs 18,000) and $300 (about Rs 27,000), according to the report. That places it in the premium smart speaker segment. The publication says the device is reportedly not expected before March 2027.
The report suggests the speaker will include a facial recognition system similar to Apple’s Face ID, potentially enabling users to authenticate purchases. If accurate, this would position the product as more than a voice assistant speaker; it would function as a context-aware AI hub designed for homes. This would position the product as more than a voice assistant speaker.
OpenAI has not officially confirmed the product. However, the move aligns with the company’s broader push into hardware following its acquisition of former Apple design chief Jony Ive’s hardware startup, IO, in a deal valued at nearly $6.5 billion last year. That acquisition signalled OpenAI’s intent to control both software and hardware, similar to the vertically integrated strategy long used by Apple.
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In a declaration to the court by Tang Tan, the Co-Founder and Chief Hardware Officer of io Products, the product is not an in-ear device, nor a wearable device.’ A speaker could be the first device because OpenAI doesn’t want to force a behavioural change from the prospective buyers.
The Information also reports that OpenAI is possibly working on smart glasses and a smart lamp. However, the glasses may not reach mass production until 2028, and the smart lamp is still at a prototype stage. It remains unclear whether these products will reach consumers.
This places OpenAI in direct competition with companies expanding into AI-first hardware. Apple, Meta, and others are reportedly developing smart glasses and AI-enabled wearables. The broader market trend suggests a move toward devices that integrate generative AI into everyday environments rather than confining it to smartphones and laptops.
Hopefully, the company addresses concerns around privacy, since the OpenAI speaker’s core functionality could involve observing surroundings and analysing conversations. Let’s see.
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G. S. Vasan
G.S. Vasan is the chief copy editor at Digit, where he leads coverage of TVs and audio. His work spans reviews, news, features, and maintaining key content pages. Before joining Digit, he worked with publications like Smartprix and 91mobiles, bringing over six years of experience in tech journalism. His articles reflect both his expertise and passion for technology. View Full Profile
