ChatGPT Speaker: OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, may soon step into the world of hardware. After focusing mainly on software and artificial intelligence tools, the company is now reportedly working on its first physical product,a smart speaker powered by ChatGPT.
While the device is still in development, early reports suggest it could be very different from the smart speakers currently available in the market.
A Smart ChatGPT Speaker With a Camera
According to reports, OpenAI’s upcoming speaker may include a built-in camera. This would allow the device to understand its surroundings better. For example, it could identify objects placed nearby or recognise people using it.
Unlike traditional smart speakers that respond only after hearing a wake word, this device may have more advanced listening capabilities. It is expected to track and understand ambient conversations in the room. This means it may not rely entirely on a wake command to activate.
Such features could help the speaker provide smarter and more personalised responses. For instance, it may notice if a user is working late at night before an important event and offer helpful suggestions or reminders.
Who has designed this speaker?
The design of the speaker is reportedly being led by renowned former Apple designer Jony Ive. His design company, io, was acquired by OpenAI in a deal valued at $6.5 billion in May 2025.
Around 200 employees are believed to be working on OpenAI’s hardware projects. With Ive’s experience in creating products like the iPhone and iMac, expectations around design and build quality are naturally high.
Face Recognition and Shopping Features
Voice-activated ChatGPT-enabled devices could be unlocked or approved for payment by merely being looked at, which utilizes a facial recognition functionality like Apple’s Face ID.
This innovation could facilitate the purchasing process as users may be able to make product queries through their voice and authorize payment with their face, but it raises valid concerns regarding how biometric information will be secured and stored.
Privacy Concerns Over ChatGPT Speaker
There has been lots of media coverage about the potential new device’s privacy issues.
There are ongoing reports regarding the potential for it to have near-constant audio recording capabilities. While this means the device is capable of responding much quicker and can better understand context, there are also significant questions relating to people’s conversations and their privacy.
OpenAI has not yet provided any information related to what they plan to do regarding privacy/data security. More details will become available when the product launches.
Expected Launch Date and Price
The ChatGPT speaker is expected to launch in early 2027.
As for pricing, reports suggest it may be priced between $200 and $300 in the United States. In Indian currency, that would roughly translate to Rs 18,000 to Rs 27,000.
This would place the device in the premium smart speaker segment, competing with products from companies like Apple and other major tech brands.
Overall, the smart speaker may only be the beginning of OpenAI’s hardware journey. The company is also said to be exploring other devices, such as smart glasses, a smart lamp, and even an in-ear audio device reportedly codenamed “Sweetpea.”
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