OpenAI Prepares to Disrupt Consumer Tech with 'Sweetpea' AI Device

Tech insiders reveal OpenAI is working on a secret hardware project that could redefine how we interact with artificial intelligence. Codenamed "Sweetpea," this audio device represents the ChatGPT maker's ambitious leap into consumer electronics.

Design Meets Cutting-Edge Technology

The device sports a distinctive oval metal casing with a dual-capsule rear-hanging design - blending aesthetics with comfort. What really sets Sweetpea apart is what's inside: an advanced 2nm AI chip and multimodal interaction components including an electromyography (EMG) sensing window.

This technology suggests users might control the device through subtle facial movements or even silent commands, going far beyond today's voice assistants. "It's like having a sixth sense for your digital world," one insider described.

Apple Design Pedigree

Adding star power to the project is Jony Ive, Apple's legendary former design chief. His deep involvement signals OpenAI's commitment to creating hardware that feels as premium as it performs. Industry watchers see this collaboration as particularly telling - marrying OpenAI's AI expertise with Ive's renowned design philosophy.

Manufacturing Muscle Behind the Vision

Foxconn has been tapped as exclusive manufacturer after intense negotiations. While Luxshare Precision was initially favored, supply chain considerations ultimately led OpenAI to partner with the iPhone maker. Sources indicate this could be just the beginning - Foxconn might handle up to five OpenAI hardware projects by 2028.

The Big Picture: AI Goes Mainstream

If successful, Sweetpea could mark OpenAI's transformation from software powerhouse to full-spectrum tech giant. Scheduled for September 2026 release, the device aims to bring advanced AI out of the cloud and into everyday wearables.

The ambitious first-year target of 40-50 million shipments shows just how serious OpenAI is about making artificial general intelligence (AGI) accessible worldwide. As one analyst put it: "This isn't just another gadget - it could be the first true mass-market portal to AGI."

Key Points:

• Design: Oval metal casing with dual-capsule structure designed by Jony Ive
• Tech: Features 2nm AI chip and EMG sensors for silent commands
• Manufacturing: Foxconn secured as exclusive production partner
• Target: 40-50 million units shipped in first year
• Significance: Represents OpenAI's major push into consumer hardware