openai’s​ AI Device with Jony Ive: What We⁣ Know ‌(January 2026)

OpenAI, the company behind ​ChatGPT, is preparing to launch its first hardware product in the second half of 2026,‌ marking a important shift from its software-centric⁤ approach. This venture is bolstered by the 2025​ acquisition of Jony Ive’s design ‌firm, LoveFrom, for $6.5 billion The Verge. The project aims to redefine how we interact ​with ‍technology,‌ moving away from the attention-grabbing nature of ⁤smartphones towards a ⁣more⁢ intuitive and integrated AI experience.

A “Peaceful” Option to the ​Smartphone

CEO Sam Altman envisions the device as a “peaceful” counterpart to the modern ​smartphone, prioritizing simplicity and seamless ​integration into daily life. ​ Rather than competing for user attention with a screen, ‌the device is intended to be‍ a ​subtle tool that assists users in ⁤the background. This philosophy reflects a growing concern about the ‍addictive nature of ​smartphones and a desire⁤ for more mindful technology use.

“Sweetpea”: The Ear-Mounted AI Companion

Leaks and reports suggest⁢ the device, codenamed “sweetpea,” will take the form of⁢ a pair of metallic, pill-shaped ​wearables designed to ‍sit behind the ear. Axios describes it ⁤as a more advanced version of airpods, deeply integrated‌ with ​ChatGPT. The device is expected to leverage sensors⁢ to understand​ the user’s ⁤environment and context.

A custom 2nm chip is anticipated to power the device, enabling rapid data processing. Users ‌will interact ‌with the AI primarily⁤ through voice commands, ‌allowing them to access information, manage tasks, and receive assistance ​without needing to look at a screen. Speculation suggests the device⁢ coudl ⁣handle tasks currently assigned to virtual assistants like Siri or Google Assistant, perhaps disrupting the​ smartphone assistant landscape.

Key Features (Based on leaks & Reports)

• Form Factor: Ear-mounted, pill-shaped wearables
• AI Engine: Deep integration ⁢with ChatGPT
• Processing ‍Power: Custom 2nm chip for‍ fast performance
• Interaction: Primarily⁢ voice-controlled
• Sensors: Environmental awareness capabilities

The Expanding AI Hardware Market

OpenAI isn’t alone in exploring AI-powered hardware. 2026‍ is ‍projected to ‌be a significant year for​ the AI⁢ hardware market, with analysts forecasting ample shipments of smart glasses ⁢and⁢ AI-enhanced earbuds