OpenAI is releasing its first smart speaker with a camera capable of recognizing its user.

OpenAI enters the smart gadget market

*Main product*

The company's first hardware offering is a “smart” speaker with a camera. According to *The Information*, it will cost roughly $200–$300 and will be able to recognize objects on the nearest table, as well as conversations of people nearby. The built‑in face recognition system will allow the device to be used for purchases.

*Who’s developing it?*

Behind the development is legendary designer Jony Ive. His startup io was acquired by OpenAI in May last year for almost $6.5 billion. Since then, rumors about new hardware have been circulating regularly: the first device won’t be wearable and is expected to hit the market only after March 2027. In any case, the gadgets will be geared toward working with AI.

*Competitors*

Apple—Ive’s former employer—is also actively pushing into the smart device space. Rumors say the company is developing smart glasses, a pendant with a camera and AI, as well as AirPods with built‑in cameras.

*Other OpenAI projects*

In addition to the speaker, OpenAI is working on several other prototypes: possibly smart glasses and a “smart” lamp (which Apple is also developing). However, the glasses may only reach mass production by 2028. As for the other gadgets—though prototypes already exist, it’s still unknown whether they will be released. The company’s plans are in an early stage, *The Information* notes.