OpenAI to launch AI-powered speaker as first consumer hardware device amid allegations of trade-secret theft

The device is expected to control smart home appliances, play media, answer user queries, respond to messages and leverage ChatGPT's broader capabilities to deliver conversational AI experiences.OpenAI is preparing to launch a portable, screen-free smart speaker as its first consumer hardware product, according to a Bloomberg News report, marking the company's entry into the AI-powered devices market.The report comes days after Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and two former Apple employees, accusing the AI startup of trade-secret theft.

Apple alleges that OpenAI orchestrated a broad effort to obtain confidential information through former employees, recruitment practices and supplier relationships to accelerate its consumer hardware ambitions.The planned device could open a new revenue stream for OpenAI as it prepares for a public listing.

Last year, the ChatGPT-maker acquired AI devices startup io for $6.5 billion from former Apple design chief Jony Ive to develop hardware built for the generative AI era.According to Bloomberg, the upcoming product resembles a portable speaker and is being designed as a human-like AI companion for home use.The device is expected to control smart home appliances, play media, answer user queries, respond to messages and leverage ChatGPT's broader capabilities to deliver conversational AI experiences.Bloomberg also reported that the device will feature a camera and multiple sensors to better understand a user's surroundings and context.

It is expected to incorporate more advanced AI capabilities than those available in existing smart speakers.Jony Ive's design firm, LoveFrom, is helping build OpenAI's hardware business.

The effort reportedly includes several former Apple designers and engineers who previously worked on products such as the iPhone and Mac.OpenAI did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment on the report.