Sam Altman Targets 100 Million Sales for OpenAI's Upcoming AI Device



Sam Altman Targets 100 Million Sales for OpenAI's Upcoming AI Device
  • Sam Altman OpenAI AI Device 2026 100 Million Units
  • OpenAI Jony Ive Partnership AI Hardware Innovation
  • Screenless AI Device Smartphone Alternative OpenAI
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has revealed bold ambitions to launch a groundbreaking AI device, targeting sales of 100 million units by the end of 2026. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Altman disclosed the company’s plans during an internal meeting with OpenAI employees, aiming to position the new product as a revolutionary tech tool on par with smartphones and personal computers.
The announcement follows OpenAI’s recent $6.5 billion acquisition of a company led by former Apple designer Jony Ive. The strategic move is aimed at accelerating the development of a novel class of AI-powered devices. Altman reportedly believes the partnership could add up to $1 trillion in value to OpenAI.
The planned AI device is expected to be radically different from existing gadgets. It will not be a phone, screen-based, or wearable. Instead, Altman envisions a compact tool that can fit in a user’s pocket or rest on a desk, offering continuous awareness of its surroundings and seamless integration into users' lives.
Altman and Ive are collaborating to create what could become a 'third core device' for everyday use, following the PC and smartphone. While details remain scarce, the concept is intended to provide direct access to OpenAI’s technology outside of conventional platforms like smartphones and browsers.
Despite the ambitious goals, the AI hardware sector has seen limited success. Previous launches from Humane and Rabbit Inc. both AI device startups have struggled with adoption due to hardware and software limitations. Moreover, OpenAI itself is under financial pressure, with earlier reports indicating it may not turn a profit until at least 2029.
Nonetheless, Altman appears confident that breaking into the consumer hardware space is essential for OpenAI to establish a direct interface with end users, making the Ive partnership a crucial step in realizing this vision.