OpenAI is reportedly preparing to launch its first consumer hardware device and it could redefine how people interact with artificial intelligence. According to a report citing The Information, the upcoming device is expected to rely heavily on voice based interactions with little to no focus on a traditional display.
As part of this strategy, OpenAI is said to be developing new audio focused GPT models designed specifically to power an always listening and conversational AI device.
OpenAI Upgrading Audio GPT Models Ahead of Hardware Launch
The report claims OpenAI is actively upgrading its audio model architecture to enable more natural and human-like conversations. These next generation models are expected to offer:
1. More expressive and realistic speech
2. Longer and more detailed responses
3. Better handling of interruptions
4. Support for overlapping speech where the AI can talk while the user is speaking
This overlapping speech capability would mark a major advancement over current ChatGPT voice features. OpenAI is reportedly targeting a first quarter 2026 release for these upgraded audio models.
What to Expect From OpenAI’s Audio First Device
OpenAI’s first consumer device is being developed in collaboration with former Apple design chief Jony Ive. The project entered the prototyping phase in 2025 and is now said to be moving closer to a final form.
Speaking earlier at Emerson Collective’s Demo Day, Ive suggested the device could arrive in less than two years. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has also shared that the latest prototype finally feels simple and beautiful after several earlier versions failed to feel intuitive. Both leaders have indicated that the overall design direction is now final.
Compact Screen Free and Always Listening
Previous reports from the Financial Times and Bloomberg suggested the device will be compact screen free and designed to continuously pick up audio cues from its surroundings. Some reports also indicate the device could interpret visual context without including a built-in display.
One earlier report suggested OpenAI may use a small projector to display information on nearby surfaces instead of relying on a traditional screen.
Smart Glasses or Speaker Style Form Factor
The latest reporting further strengthens the idea that audio will be the primary interface. According to The Information, OpenAI has explored multiple form factors including smart glasses and a speaker style device with no display.
These concepts point to a product designed to stay with users throughout the day rather than replacing smartphones or laptops outright. The focus appears to be on seamless voice driven assistance that works in the background.
A Big Step Toward Voice First AI
If these reports prove accurate, OpenAI’s first device could signal a major shift toward voice first artificial intelligence. With Jony Ive leading the design and next generation audio GPT models at its core, the device could become one of the most talked about AI products when it finally launches.