Reports indicate that OpenAI is making a push into the hardware space. The company has expressed interest in such a move for some time. While more specific details about potential hardware products are still lacking, some clues have emerged. Meanwhile, it appears that OpenAI is tapping into Apple‘s talent and supplier network to help bring its vision to life. This move suggests a serious effort to go beyond software and into physical AI-powered products.
OpenAI is reportedly poaching Apple talent for its hardware push
According to a report from The Information, OpenAI, in partnership with designer Jony Ive, has successfully recruited a number of employees from Apple. We’re talking about more than two dozen people who previously worked on Apple’s consumer hardware. They covered areas like user interfaces, wearables, and audio technology at their previous jobs. OpenAI has been hiring them throughout this year, according to the source.
The motivation for these individuals to make the switch reportedly includes attractive compensation packages. This includes some stock grants exceeding a million dollars. There is also a desire to escape the bureaucracy and work on creating new, non-incremental products. The reports specifically cite the enthusiasm of these employees to once again work with Jony Ive and other Apple veterans, like Tang Tan.
OpenAI’s ambitious hardware plan also involves Apple’s suppliers
To support this hardware effort, OpenAI is also reportedly working with some of the same key suppliers that Apple uses. Luxshare, a major assembler of iPhones and AirPods, has already secured a contract to assemble at least one of OpenAI’s upcoming devices. Additionally, Goertek, which assembles AirPods, HomePods, and Apple Watches, has been approached for components. This strategy of leveraging a proven supply chain demonstrates the company’s commitment to building reliable consumer electronics.
The reports even claim that Apple seems to be started by this brain drain. Executives reportedly canceled an offsite meeting in China to prevent further defections.
According to industry sources, OpenAI is exploring a range of ideas for its hardware products. The list could include a smart speaker without a display, glasses, a digital voice recorder, and a wearable pin. OpenAI is reportedly aiming for a product release in late 2026 or early 2027.
By recruiting talent and working with suppliers from one of the world’s leading hardware companies, OpenAI’s move into the physical product space highlights a new ambition. The company appears to be betting on a future where AI is not just a software feature but is built directly into a new kind of device. Will OpenAI manage to redefine how we interact with technology? It will be interesting to see.