OpenAI's First AI Device Confirmed for 2026 Debut with Jony Ive Collaboration

• OpenAI Policy Chief Chris Lehane confirmed the company's first AI hardware device is slated for a debut in the second half of 2026.
• The device is being developed in collaboration with legendary designer Jony Ive and his design studio LoveFrom.
• CEO Sam Altman described the upcoming hardware as "peaceful" and promised users would be "shocked" by its simplicity.
• Reports suggest it will be a small, screenless AI companion, primarily voice-operated, designed to be a constant, accessible AI presence.
• Jony Ive's "io" team, including former Apple engineer Janum Trivedi, is assembling to work on this highly anticipated project.

Why It Matters: OpenAI is set to launch its first AI hardware device in late 2026, a screenless companion designed with Jony Ive.