OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is reportedly working on a smart speaker without a display, according to Bloomberg.
The report indicates that the speaker will “serve as a humanlike AI companion that lives in the home,” and it will be able to control smart home accessories, answer questions, play media, respond to messages and more, all powered by ChatGPT. The AI speaker is designed to use AI to learn about the user over time and slowly become more personalized and proactive.
Bloomberg indicates the device will have its own personality and will be able to connect “on a humanlike level with users.” Additionally, the device won’t look like a regular home speaker and will have mechanical parts that can move on their own, simulating the sense that the device is alive. It will have a camera so it can understand the user’s surroundings, and it even has a rechargeable battery so it can be carried around the house.
Previous teasers about the device from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman indicate that the device will have “incredible contextual awareness” about the user’s life. The teasers described the device as a type of computer built for AI and as “exciting.”
Notably, the details come after Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI for stealing trade secrets to develop an AI device. The suit also claimed that OpenAI gained access to Apple’s proprietary metal finishing technique. Bloomberg was told by people familiar with the project that this device is nothing like anything Apple has on the market, and it is “unlikely” to violate Apple’s trade secrets.” And while Apple does have a HomePod and HomePod mini speakers, OpenAI doesn’t consider those comparable devices.
However, Apple is reportedly working on a comparable device that features a 7-inch square screen, a speaker, a camera for video chats, facial recognition and supports Siri AI integration.
OpenAI was expected to launch its hardware in 2026, but now it is reportedly delayed until 2027. Apple has asked the court for an injunction, possibly prohibiting OpenAI from even releasing the hardware — now only time will tell.
