OpenAI Launches First Consumer Hardware Device—Portable AI Speaker on July 14

According to Bloomberg, OpenAI is launching its first consumer hardware device, a portable screenless smart speaker designed to function as a human-like AI companion in the home, on July 14. The device will control smart home devices, stream media, answer questions, and access broader ChatGPT capabilities, featuring cameras and sensors to understand user surroundings.

The announcement comes days after Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and two former Apple employees, alleging systematic theft of trade secrets through recruitment of talent and supplier relationships to accelerate entry into consumer hardware. OpenAI previously acquired AI device startup io, founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, for $6.5 billion.