OpenAI hardware is moving from hints to a stated timeline, with a late-2026 target now on record.
A 2H 2026 target surfaces at Davos
OpenAI hardware is “on track” to be unveiled in the second half of 2026, OpenAI chief global affairs officer Chris Lehane said on January 19, 2026 at Axios House Davos. Lehane added the latter part of 2026 was the “most likely” window, while noting the company would “see how things advance.”
The Axios report did not describe the product’s final form. It said Lehane declined to confirm whether it would be a pin, an earpiece, or something else. It also said OpenAI would share more “much later in the year.”
What Reuters has already reported about execution
OpenAI hardware planning has been paired with concrete supply-chain work in earlier Reuters reporting.
On September 19, 2025, Reuters reported OpenAI had signed a deal with Apple device assembler Luxshare to make a consumer device, citing The Information. Reuters said the prototype was expected to be pocket-sized and “aware of context,” designed to work closely with OpenAI’s AI models. It also reported OpenAI approached Goertek for components such as speaker modules.
That same Reuters piece said OpenAI bought hardware startup io Products, founded by former Apple designer Jony Ive, in a $6.5 billion deal. Axios separately said OpenAI acquired Ive’s company last May, underscoring that the device effort has been central for months.
What kind of device is being discussed
OpenAI hardware remains tightly held, but the reporting offers a consistent theme: an AI-native product that reduces reliance on phones.
Axios said “various reports” have described prototypes as small devices with no screen, possibly wearable, that interact directly with users. It also cited Sam Altman describing a future device as more “peaceful” than a smartphone, and “shockingly” simple, without offering technical detail.
Reuters’ “Artificial Intelligencer” newsletter on December 11, 2025 described a vision of an always-present assistant with visible signals when it is paying attention. Reuters reported OpenAI is exploring smaller models that can run locally and a custom chip optimized for on-device inference, to reduce privacy friction and power constraints.
Why OpenAI is pushing into devices
OpenAI hardware matters because competition is shifting from chat apps to AI-native form factors.
If OpenAI can place its models into a device layer, it can influence the user experience, data flows, and default behaviors. That is the same strategic position phones, browsers, and app stores already occupy.
OpenAI hardware also adds a new constraint: manufacturing execution. Software leadership does not guarantee high-yield production, component availability, or compliance across jurisdictions. The Reuters Luxshare report is notable because it links OpenAI’s ambitions to a company known for high-volume assembly.
Market implications to watch into 2026
OpenAI hardware could pressure incumbents in three practical ways.
Supply chain and distribution become moats
Luxshare and component sourcing suggest OpenAI is preparing for scale, not just a demo. If the product relies on audio, sensors, or wearables-style packaging, sourcing and quality control will shape launch cadence.
AI compute shifts toward hybrid on-device
Reuters’ reporting on small models and a possible custom chip implies OpenAI may push more inference toward the edge. That can improve latency and privacy perceptions, but it also raises bill-of-materials and thermal design constraints.
Services and monetization logic changes
A device strategy can change how AI is packaged and billed. It can also shift user acquisition, from app installs to retail-style distribution and carrier or partner bundles.
What to look for next
OpenAI hardware will be clearer once OpenAI discloses three things: the category, the interaction model, and the rollout plan.
Axios reported Lehane expects to share more later in 2026. Until then, the strongest signals will likely come from partner announcements, regulatory filings, and supply-chain hiring.