Overview
- Multiple outlets reported on July 14 that Bloomberg sources say OpenAI is developing a mobile, screenless smart speaker that acts as a home AI companion rather than a conventional speaker.
- People familiar with the project told reporters the device will include a camera and environmental sensors, a rechargeable battery for room‑to‑room use, and mechanical elements that can move to create a lifelike presence.
- The speaker is said to use OpenAI’s new GPT‑Live voice model to hold more natural, real‑time conversations and to perform tasks such as controlling smart‑home devices, playing media, answering questions, and responding to messages.
- OpenAI built the project around its acquisition of Jony Ive’s io Products and work with LoveFrom and has hired many former Apple engineers after a roughly $6.4–$6.5 billion deal for io’s team.
- OpenAI is reportedly targeting a public unveiling this year and a consumer release in 2027, but Apple’s official trade‑secret lawsuit seeks injunctive relief that could delay or block the rollout and raises questions about privacy, supply chain, and pricing (sources have cited a $200–$300 range and possible manufacturing in Vietnam or the U.S.).