OpenAI's Donut-Shaped AI Smart Speaker: Price, Design, Jony Ive Partnership, and Everything We Know So Far

A standout feature is its moving mechanical parts. According to Bloomberg, the device includes elements that move on their own, creating a sense that the speaker is "alive" and responsive, not just a static object . MacRumors reports that these mechanical elements support the device's role as a personal companion rather than a traditional voice assistant .

Additional design details from PCMag and Gadgets360 confirm the speaker will have integrated cameras, microphones, speaker grills, and lights . The camera system can scan the surroundings to provide the AI with visual context, and some reports suggest facial recognition similar to Apple's Face ID . The device is battery-powered and wireless, so it can be moved freely around the home .

Materials and Build

The speaker is constructed from high-quality metal with a premium look and feel, according to sources who spoke to Bloomberg .

Price: $300–$400

The most recent reporting from Bloomberg (August 2026) indicates the speaker will be priced at $300 to $400 . Earlier reports from February 2026 by The Information suggested a lower price target of $200–$300, but the newer consensus points to the higher range . At $300–$400, the device would be significantly more expensive than mainstream smart speakers such as the Amazon Echo or Google Nest, which typically sell for well under $200 .

Release Timeline: 2027

Multiple outlets report that the device is expected to launch in early 2027 at the earliest . An unveiling may happen in late 2026, with the actual market release following in 2027 . The Information previously stated that over 200 employees are dedicated to the project .

Partnership with Jony Ive

The device is being developed in partnership with LoveFrom, the design studio founded by Jony Ive, former chief design officer at Apple . Ive's involvement signals a strong emphasis on premium industrial design.

What It Will Do

Powered by ChatGPT, the speaker will reportedly use advanced models that can learn about the user and engage in natural conversation . MacRumors reports the device will be able to control smart home accessories, answer questions, play media, and respond to messages . Bloomberg adds that OpenAI views the device as a potential smartphone replacement .

Market Challenges

Despite the ambitious design, OpenAI faces significant hurdles:

• High price point: At $300–$400, the device is positioned well above the price range of most smart speakers, including the Amazon Echo, Google Nest, and Apple HomePod .
• Competitive landscape: Amazon, Google, and Apple already dominate the smart speaker market, making it a tough entry for a new player .
• Unproven hardware: OpenAI is primarily a software and AI company; this would be its first hardware product, carrying manufacturing, supply chain, and retail execution risks .
• Consumer adoption risk: It is unclear whether consumers will pay a premium for a screenless, chat-based device over existing assistants . The device is positioned as an AI companion rather than a conventional smart speaker, and whether that resonates with a broad market remains to be seen.

What's Next

OpenAI has not publicly confirmed the device's specifications, pricing, or release date. The information is based on anonymous sources cited by Bloomberg and other outlets, and plans could change. For now, the reported details paint a picture of a bold, design-forward attempt to create a dedicated hardware interface for ChatGPT.