OpenAI's AI Smart Speaker Reportedly Priced at $300-$400

A new report has shed light on OpenAI’s long-rumored hardware project, revealing that its upcoming AI-powered smart speaker will carry a price tag between $300 and $400. Developed in collaboration with former Apple design chief Jony Ive, the device is said to be a battery-powered, doughnut-shaped gadget roughly the size of a hockey puck. Notably, it will have no display, positioning it as a pure voice-first assistant. The pricing places it in the premium smart speaker segment, above Amazon’s Echo and Google’s Nest offerings, but below Apple’s high-end HomePod. The design philosophy echoes Ive’s signature minimalism, focusing on form and tactile experience rather than screens. The lack of a display suggests OpenAI is betting that conversational AI, powered by models like GPT-5.6, can deliver a more natural and capable interaction than screen-based interfaces. Expected to launch in 2027, the device will likely face stiff competition from established players, but its differentiation lies in the underlying intelligence. While current smart speakers often frustrate users with limited contextual understanding, OpenAI’s device could leverage its frontier models to handle complex multi-step requests, remember preferences, and integrate deeply with third-party services. The $300-$400 price point is ambitious. It signals a premium positioning, targeting early adopters and Apple loyalists who appreciate Ive’s design language. However, success will depend on whether the voice experience truly feels magical enough to justify the cost. If it delivers, OpenAI could carve out a new category in home AI. If not, it risks being seen as an expensive novelty. For now, the report offers a tantalizing glimpse into a device that could redefine how we interact with AI at home. With Ive’s design pedigree and OpenAI’s model capabilities, the 2027 launch is one to watch.