OpenAI is reportedly preparing to enter the consumer hardware space with a new artificial intelligence audio product that could compete with Apple AirPods. Since the company announced its partnership with renowned designer Jony Ive, there has been wide speculation about what kind of device they are building. A recent leak now suggests that the focus could be on an AI powered wearable.
According to a tipster on X, the upcoming product is codenamed Sweetpea and is designed as a possible replacement for AirPods. The tipster claimed that Foxconn has been asked to prepare five types of devices by the fourth quarter of 2028. These may include a home style device and a smart pen.
The leak also stated that Sweetpea is now the top priority because of Jony Ive’s involvement. The product is expected to launch in September 2028, with a projected volume of 40 to 50 million units.
The design is described as something never seen before and shaped like an egg stone. It may feature a 2 nm smartphone grade chip, possibly from Samsung’s Exynos lineup. The device could also use a custom chip that allows it to “replace iPhone actions by commanding Siri”.
Earlier, a business daily had reported that Sam Altman told employees the new AI device would be small enough to fit in a pocket. He described it as a “third device” that would support smartphones rather than replace them.
Another media report suggested that the product could be a pen with built in cameras and microphones that stay active to understand the user’s surroundings.
Last year, Altman and Ive confirmed that they are working on several hardware products. They also said that these AI powered devices could reach users within the next two years, pointing to a possible 2027 launch.
Altman shared his excitement, saying, “We have the first prototypes. I can’t believe how jaw-dropping good the work is and how exciting it is.”
Ive also explained his design approach, saying, “I love solutions that teeter on the appearing, almost naïve, in their simplicity. And I also love incredibly intelligent, sophisticated products that you want to touch and you feel no intimidation, and you want to use almost carelessly — that you will use them almost without thought.”
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