Key Highlights

• OpenAI may launch a smart speaker with a built-in camera by early 2027
• The device is expected to cost between $200 and $300
• The product is reportedly designed under former Apple designer Jony Ive
• Facial recognition could enable sign-in, shopping, or personalized AI actions

OpenAI may launch its first consumer hardware product in 2027. The company is reportedly working on a $200–$300 AI-powered smart speaker with a built-in camera and facial recognition.

The device is being developed under the leadership of Jony Ive and could mark OpenAI’s biggest push beyond software as it looks to expand its business around ChatGPT.

OpenAI’s first AI device may be a smart speaker

According to a report from The Information, OpenAI is building a smart speaker equipped with a camera capable of facial recognition. The device could allow users to sign in automatically or identify objects for shopping and tasks.

The report says the product will likely cost between $200 and $300. However, it is not expected to ship before February 2027.

This timeline matters because OpenAI is reportedly spending heavily on AI infrastructure and development. Some estimates suggest the company could face financial pressure within the next two years.

Why Jony Ive’s role matters

The smart speaker is said to be the first major product designed under Jony Ive, the former Apple design chief. OpenAI reportedly paid $6.5 billion last year to bring Ive and his design firm into the company.

Ive is best known for shaping iconic Apple products such as the iPhone and iMac during his time at Apple. OpenAI has said his first product will be announced soon, even though details remain limited.

What will the camera be used for?

Sources quoted in the report claim the camera could observe users and help the AI suggest actions. For example, the device may notice late-night activity and recommend rest before an important meeting.

The camera could also support facial recognition similar to Face ID. However, it is still unclear whether this feature will be used only for authentication or for purchasing products.

More AI devices are reportedly coming

The smart speaker may not be OpenAI’s only hardware project. The report claims the company is also working on AI glasses, which may not reach mass production until 2028. An AI-powered smart lamp is also said to be in development.

For now, the smart speaker appears to be OpenAI’s closest step toward consumer hardware. Whether this OpenAI device can succeed in a crowded and privacy-sensitive market will become clearer closer to 2027.