OpenAI's First AI Earbuds 'Dime' Launching 2026, Advanced Devices to Follow

• OpenAI is set to enter consumer hardware with AI-enabled earbuds, codenamed 'Dime', expected by late 2026.
• This initial product will be a modest, entry-level device, focusing on voice interaction with AI models.
• The strategy allows OpenAI to test the consumer market with lower production costs and technical hurdles.
• A more advanced AI device, initially envisioned, may be delayed due to High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) shortages.
• OpenAI acquired io Products Inc. in 2025 for $6.5 billion, signaling serious intent in AI-native hardware design.