OpenAI is preparing its entry into the consumer hardware market with plans to release its first proprietary physical device in 2027. According to disclosures by Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the project involves a screenless smart speaker targeted at a retail price between 300 and 400 US dollars. Designed in close collaboration with Jony Ive's renowned design studio LoveFrom, the compact device features a flat metallic housing shaped like a puck or doughnut. Through this high-profile partnership, OpenAI aims to establish a novel physical form factor that goes beyond existing smart voice assistants.
Underneath its metallic exterior, the compact speaker is equipped with an array of advanced sensors, including multiple cameras and high-performance microphones for spatial audio and visual awareness. The most distinctive feature, however, is the inclusion of moving mechanical components built into the body. These kinetic elements allow the voice assistant to physically respond and exhibit an expressive presence during natural conversations. By deliberately excluding a traditional display, the design leans entirely into speech interaction and real-time environmental context.
The development of this hardware product has triggered a high-stakes legal dispute between OpenAI and technology giant Apple. Apple filed a lawsuit alleging that the artificial intelligence company misappropriated trade secrets by hiring key former Apple hardware engineers. Apple contends that proprietary design concepts and technical architecture were improperly utilized in OpenAI's new hardware venture. This litigation highlights the growing friction between established consumer hardware makers and leading artificial intelligence developers competing for physical user interfaces.
On August 6, 2026, OpenAI formally responded to the lawsuit by filing a motion to dismiss in court. In its filing, OpenAI firmly rejected the allegations, arguing that Apple holds no exclusive monopoly over screenless artificial intelligence hardware. The artificial intelligence firm asserted that all mechanical systems, spatial interaction designs, and underlying software integrations were developed independently without using confidential Apple trade secrets. Through this motion, OpenAI seeks an early dismissal to avoid prolonged legal delays ahead of its planned 2027 product rollout.
This push into dedicated hardware represents a major strategic pivot for OpenAI as it seeks direct control over user touchpoints. Until now, the company relied almost entirely on third-party mobile operating systems and digital app stores to deliver its software models to consumers. Launching proprietary hardware in consumer homes establishes an independent distribution channel and reduces reliance on ecosystem gatekeepers such as Apple and Google. Furthermore, the initiative illustrates a broader industry trend toward merging generative models with tailored physical hardware.
If OpenAI successfully launches the 300 to 400 dollar smart speaker in 2027, the device could redefine expectations across the home assistant ecosystem. Traditional voice assistants have long struggled with rigid command structures and limited contextual comprehension, whereas this new system emphasizes fluid, agentic interaction. The combination of physical kinetic responses, visual spatial tracking, and advanced generative models could accelerate the adoption of proactive artificial intelligence in everyday domestic environments.