OpenAI's Bold Move into Hardware with 'Sweetpea' AI Audio Device
OpenAI is making a significant leap into the consumer hardware market. The company aims to challenge Apple's dominance in the audio space. A new report reveals OpenAI's plans to launch an AI-powered device codenamed "Sweetpea" by September 2028. This device directly targets Apple's popular AirPods.
Details from the Recent Leak
Tipster Smart Pikachu shared crucial information on social media platform X. According to the leak, OpenAI's "Sweetpea" project intends to replace AirPods for many users. Foxconn has reportedly received instructions to prepare five devices by the fourth quarter of 2028. These devices might include a home-style product and a pen alongside the audio device.
The "Sweetpea" project currently enjoys top priority status. This priority comes from the involvement of renowned designer Jony Ive. OpenAI projects an initial production volume of 40 to 50 million units for the launch.
Design and Technical Specifications
The device promises a groundbreaking design never seen before in the market. Insiders describe the shape as resembling an "eggstone." Technologically, "Sweetpea" could feature a 2nm smartphone-style chip, possibly from Samsung's Exynos lineup.
More importantly, OpenAI plans to include a custom chip in the device. This chip would enable users to command Siri for various iPhone actions. Essentially, the device could serve as a voice-controlled interface for smartphone functions.
Contradictory Reports and Earlier Information
Earlier reports presented a slightly different picture of OpenAI's hardware ambitions. The Wall Street Journal quoted OpenAI CEO Sam Altman briefing employees about a "third device." This device would complement smartphones rather than replace them entirely. Altman described it as pocket-sized and designed to work alongside existing mobile technology.
Bloomberg offered another perspective in its reporting. Their sources suggested the AI device might actually be a smart pen. This pen would incorporate built-in cameras and microphones. These features would allow the device to remain aware of the user's surroundings at all times.
Official Statements from OpenAI Leadership
Sam Altman and Jony Ive confirmed their hardware collaboration during a conversation with Emerson Collective last year. They revealed they are working on multiple hardware products simultaneously. The duo suggested these AI-powered devices could reach consumers within two years, pointing toward a potential 2027 launch timeline.
Altman expressed tremendous excitement about the project's progress. He confirmed that OpenAI already possesses the first prototypes of these devices. "We have the first prototypes. I can't believe how jaw-dropping good the work is and how exciting it is," Altman stated during the interaction.
Jony Ive shared his design philosophy for the upcoming products. "I love solutions that teeter on the appearing, almost naive, 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," Ive explained.
The Competitive Landscape
This move represents OpenAI's first major foray into consumer hardware against established giants. Apple currently dominates the wireless audio market with its AirPods lineup. The "Sweetpea" project signals OpenAI's confidence in its AI technology's potential for hardware integration.
The 2028 launch timeline gives OpenAI several years to refine the technology and design. Market observers will watch closely as development progresses toward the projected release date.
