ChatGPT maker OpenAI to launch screen-free smart speaker as first consumer hardware product

CHATGPT creator OpenAI is preparing to launch a portable, screen-free smart speaker as its first consumer hardware product, just days after Apple filed a lawsuit against the artificial intelligence company and two former Apple employees over alleged trade-secret theft.

The device is expected to be unveiled in late 2026 and released in 2027, according to multiple media reports citing people familiar with the matter.

Unlike smartphones or smart displays, the product will not include a screen. It is designed to be a portable AI device centred on voice interaction and powered by OpenAI's artificial intelligence models.

The hardware project is being led by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, whose AI devices startup, io, was acquired by OpenAI earlier this year in a deal valued at nearly US$6.5 billion.

OpenAI has said the acquisition will bring together engineers, designers and researchers to develop a new family of AI-powered consumer products.

The planned smart speaker marks OpenAI's first consumer hardware product as the company expands beyond software and AI services.

The development comes days after Apple filed a lawsuit in California against OpenAI and former Apple employees Tang Tan and Evans Hankey, alleging the misuse of confidential information related to Apple's product development.

According to the lawsuit, Apple claims the former employees disclosed proprietary information after joining OpenAI's hardware initiative. Apple is seeking damages and an injunction to prevent the alleged use of its trade secrets.

OpenAI has denied the allegations, saying its hardware programme was developed independently and that it respects the intellectual property rights of other companies.

The lawsuit remains before the court.

OpenAI has not announced an official launch date, product name or pricing for the smart speaker.