OpenAI’s ambitious foray into consumer hardware is facing a delay, pushing the anticipated release of its first device to 2027, according to reports. The shift marks a significant reset for a project that has captivated the tech industry since the company partnered with Jony Ive, the renowned former Apple design chief, to develop a new generation of artificial intelligence-powered devices.
The delay comes after OpenAI formally acquired Ive’s startup, io Products, in 2025 in a deal valued at $6.5 billion, OpenAI’s largest acquisition to date. The acquisition was intended to accelerate OpenAI’s expansion beyond software and into the realm of physical products, specifically hardware designed to natively integrate with generative AI. The vision, as articulated by company executives, was to create a more intuitive and seamless interface for interacting with AI technology.
A Shift in Timeline and Branding
Previously, speculation suggested a potential launch in 2026. However, the updated timeline now points to 2027 for consumer availability, signaling that OpenAI is prioritizing refinement of both the hardware concept and its overall consumer AI strategy. This adjustment allows for further development and optimization as the company navigates the complexities of entering a new market.
Adding another layer to the transition, OpenAI has likewise dropped the “io” branding previously associated with the project, following challenges related to trademark rights, as reported by Wired. This decision underscores the evolving nature of the project as OpenAI prepares its long-term hardware strategy.
Exploring Form Factors and Facing Challenges
Over the past year, considerable speculation has centered on the potential form factor of OpenAI’s first consumer device. In January 2026, TechCrunch reported that the company was exploring the possibility of earbuds as a first product. Sources indicated a compact device capable of handling AI tasks through custom silicon and tight integration with OpenAI’s AI models, suggesting a wearable companion designed for voice-first interaction.
However, these reports were quickly followed by debunking of viral imagery circulating online. The Verge reported that images appearing to showcase OpenAI hardware around the Super Bowl were a hoax, highlighting the limited amount of confirmed public information regarding the project. OpenAI confirmed the images were fake and reiterated that no official product visuals had been released.
The Broader AI Hardware Landscape
Designing an entirely new category of AI-first hardware presents significant hurdles, extending beyond software updates to encompass technical complexities, supply chain logistics, and user experience considerations. The delay to 2027 provides OpenAI with additional time to mature its AI models, optimize on-device processing capabilities, and refine design concepts under Jony Ive’s guidance.
This extended timeline also positions OpenAI to enter a rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive field of AI-enabled consumer gadgets. Numerous companies are exploring smart wearables, advanced voice assistants, and multimodal devices, creating a crowded market landscape. OpenAI’s ability to differentiate its offering will be crucial for success.
The company’s hardware initiative is framed as an effort to reimagine how users interact with AI, potentially reducing reliance on traditional screens, and keyboards. This ambition reflects a broader industry trend toward more natural and ambient interfaces for artificial intelligence.
As of now, OpenAI’s first consumer hardware product remains unnamed and its specific features are still under wraps. The company has not publicly disclosed details regarding pricing or availability beyond the 2027 target date.
The next official update regarding OpenAI’s hardware plans is expected in late 2026, when the company anticipates sharing further details about its progress and vision for the future of AI-powered devices.
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