OpenAI smart speaker with built-in camera rumoured to release next year

Past reports have suggested that OpenAI is working on hardware products since acquiring Apple’s ex-chief designer Jony Ive’s design startup. Earlier it was rumoured to be an AI Pen and then AI earbuds. Now a new leak hints at the company’s first smart speaker. 

OpenAI could launch a smart speaker next year

According to The Information, OpenAI’s smart speaker would release in 2027. It would compete against Google Home, Amazon Echo, and Apple HomePod. The device is rumoured to feature a built-in camera that will be aware of its surroundings and pick up context. 

There will be a facial recognition feature similar to Apple’s FaceID for shopping purposes. Compared to many smart speakers, OpenAI’s offering won’t have a wake-up word, raising questions about privacy concerns. The report adds that the microphone will reportedly be able to listen to nearby conversations for additional context. 

OpenAI is reportedly employing 200 people dedicated to the smart speaker project. The device is expected to be priced between $200 (about Rs 18,000) and $300 (roughly Rs 27,000). Alongside the speaker, the company is also tipped to be working on a wearable pin-like device and smart glasses in the product pipeline. It’s still remains to be seen if OpenAI’s hardware products will arrive in the consumer market. 

Google is expected to announce a new Home speaker later this year with Gemini capabilities onboard. Amazon’s speakers already have Alexa Plus, the company’s AI-powered version of a voice assistant. 

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Tech giants are making similar moves in releasing AI-powered devices. Recently, it was reported that Apple is working on three AI devices, including smart glasses, a wearable pin, and AirPods.