The AI hardware space is about to get more crowded—but the form factor of OpenAI’s entry device remains unknown
OpenAI is officially moving into the hardware space, with leadership confirming that its highly anticipated AI device is on track for a 2026 announcement.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, OpenAI’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, Chris Lehane, confirmed to the crowd that the company expects to unveil its first physical product in the latter half of the year. It’s set to mark a major milestone in the firm’s transition from software giant to consumer electronics player.
The project, which has been the subject of intense speculation since OpenAI acquired Jony Ive’s hardware startup, ‘IO’, has been described by CEO Sam Altman as a “peaceful and calm” alternative to the smartphone.
And while Lehane remained tight-lipped on the specific form factor, supply chain leaks under the codename “Sweetpea” suggest the device is a screen-free, audio-focused wearable.
What do we know so far?
The main source of information thus far has come from leaker ‘Smart Pikachu’, who indicates that the device uses a behind-the-ear design, resembling a modern, high-end hearing aid more than a traditional pair of AirPods.
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This choice is reportedly strategic: by housing the battery and processor behind the outer ear, OpenAI can utilize larger cells and better thermal management—essential for a device intended to run complex AI models and maintain always-on voice interaction throughout the day.
Manufacturing has also reportedly shifted to Foxconn in Vietnam, a move that signals mass-market ambitions. Other reports suggest OpenAI is targeting shipments in the tens of millions, a scale that would dwarf the niche launches of early AI pioneers like Humane and Rabbit.
The Wareable take
OpenAI is clearly learning from the “first-gen” failures of the AI Pin and Rabbit R1, both of which struggled with thermal throttling and poor battery life (not to mention buggy software).
By going with an audio-first, behind-the-ear form factor, OpenAI would be leaning into the most natural interface for LLMs: voice.
And, of course, Jony Ive’s involvement could prove to be the X-factor here. If ‘Sweetpea’ can blend into the wearer’s daily life as an ambient assistant, it has a legitimate chance to redefine the AI hardware category. As we’ve said before, though, only time will tell on that front—but at least we know things are on track for a launch later this year.
