OpenAI to Launch First ChatGPT Hardware Device by 2027, Taps Apple Supply Chain and Ex-Apple Talent

According to industry speculations, OpenAI has partnered with Jony Ive, Apple’s legendary designer, and acquired his AI hardware startup, io. This collaboration has sparked speculation about innovative AI-powered devices, including smart glasses, digital voice recorders, wearable AI pins, and smart speakers without displays.

In a major move, OpenAI has started recruiting top talent from Apple’s hardware design teams. Former Apple product design head Tang Tan, now OpenAI’s Chief Hardware Officer, has assured potential hires of a more collaborative and less bureaucratic environment.

To power its AI hardware ambitions, OpenAI is leveraging Apple’s supply chain ecosystem in China, partnering with Luxshare, a leading assembler of iPhones and AirPods, to manufacture upcoming ChatGPT devices. Additionally, OpenAI has approached Goertek, another Apple supplier, for key components such as speaker modules.

Reports suggest that one of OpenAI’s prototype devices is pocket-sized, context-aware, and designed to integrate seamlessly with ChatGPT’s advanced AI models. These next-gen devices could redefine how consumers interact with artificial intelligence in daily life, making OpenAI a serious competitor in the smart hardware and AI-driven technology market.