An article summarized by TechCrunch:
OpenAI is reportedly exploring a major push into hardware, with new rumors suggesting it could develop its own smartphone alongside previously discussed AI-powered earbuds. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company may partner with MediaTek and Qualcomm to build a custom smartphone chip, while Luxshare could help design and manufacture the device. The move would mark a significant step beyond software into a fully integrated AI hardware ecosystem.
The rumored device could fundamentally change how smartphones work by replacing traditional apps with AI agents that handle tasks directly. This would allow OpenAI to bypass restrictions imposed by platforms like Apple and Google, which currently control app distribution and system access. By owning both hardware and software, OpenAI could enable deeper AI integration, giving its system more control over user interactions and functionality.
The potential smartphone is also expected to continuously understand user context, combining on-device AI with cloud-based models to perform tasks more intelligently. Analysts believe the device could be finalized by late 2026 or early 2027, with mass production starting around 2028. While OpenAI has not confirmed the plans, the push into hardware aligns with its broader strategy to expand beyond apps and bring AI more directly into everyday life.
