Brandon Fletcher
An intriguing report from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg suggests that OpenAI is set to unveil a much-anticipated physical device—a smart speaker that has the ability to move. This development has sparked both excitement and skepticism among tech enthusiasts.
In a separate analysis, Ming-Chi Kuo, a renowned analyst at TF International Securities, hinted at an entirely different product, referring to it as an “AI agent phone.” There is a possibility that one or both of these claims could be inaccurate. Alternatively, it’s equally plausible that OpenAI is developing a device that merges the functionalities of a phone and a smart speaker.
The details in the Bloomberg article indicate that this new device is not just another bland gadget. It is expected to be portable, battery-operated, and compact enough for easy relocation—similar in size to a baby monitor or a cordless phone from the 90s. Beyond its portability, it will have the functionality to control smart home devices without a screen, utilizing chatbot technology akin to that of existing smart speakers.
What sets this device apart is its reported mechanical features that enable it to move, creating an almost lifelike presence.
If the idea of a moving device seems far-fetched, consider this: it bears a resemblance to a project Apple has been pursuing for several years.
Rumors suggest that Apple has been testing three prototype home devices in Cupertino: two Siri-integrated smart speakers designed to enhance the Apple HomePod ecosystem, along with a third device that resembles a small robot capable of navigating around your tabletop.
Recently, Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging the misappropriation of trade secrets and claiming that OpenAI poached talent from Apple, including mechanical engineer Tang Tan. In response, OpenAI spokesperson Drew Pusateri stated, “We have no interest in other companies’ trade secrets,” emphasizing their focus on creating innovative technologies that empower individuals globally.
It’s essential to note that previous rumors about Apple’s home robot portray it as more akin to an iPad with robotic movement capabilities rather than a traditional smart speaker.
The expected smart speaker from OpenAI represents the culmination of its collaboration with former Apple design icon Jony Ive, especially following the $6.4 billion acquisition of Ive’s hardware design firm, io.
According to Bloomberg’s source, this device is designed to serve as a companion that becomes “increasingly personalized and proactive as it gains a deeper understanding of its owner over time.”
Meeting these expectations is crucial, as this device is easily one of the most highly anticipated releases since the Segway scooter debuted in 2001.
Both Ive and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman have expressed a rather intense fascination with this gadget since the release of a polished video showcasing their partnership in March of last year.
In November, Altman recounted Ive’s remark, “‘We’ll know we’ll have the design right when you want to lick it or take a bite out of it.’” Altman then noted that while there was an earlier prototype that generated excitement, it lacked that visceral appeal. He stated, “But finally we got there all of a sudden.”
Altman has also proclaimed that this device will be “the coolest piece of technology that the world will have ever seen.” As Bloomberg suggests it will be a smart speaker, the upcoming reveal will determine who is correct in their predictions.
Daniel Mercer
Ethan Carter
