OpenAI may be preparing to enter the hardware space in a much bigger way, as a new report suggests the company is exploring a smartphone-like device where AI agents could replace traditional mobile applications.
The potential device is being developed alongside Jony Ive’s startup io, which OpenAI has reportedly been linked with for months.
The report suggests the device may allow users to rely on AI agents to perform tasks instead of manually switching between apps for services such as messaging, booking rides, shopping, or productivity workflows.
TL;DR
- OpenAI is reportedly exploring an AI-powered phone.
- The device may replace apps with AI agents.
- Jony Ive’s startup io is reportedly involved.
- The product remains unconfirmed by OpenAI.
- It could reshape how users interact with smartphones.
The report notes that OpenAI has been increasingly focused on AI agents that can take actions on behalf of users.
Instead of opening individual applications for different tasks, users may simply instruct an AI assistant to complete those tasks.
The AI system would then carry out actions independently.
While specific product details remain unclear, the report indicates OpenAI is exploring ways to move beyond traditional software experiences and build hardware centered around agentic AI interactions.
The report adds to growing speculation that OpenAI is looking to expand beyond its existing software offerings.
The company has rapidly grown its consumer presence through ChatGPT, which remains one of the most widely used AI tools globally.
The reported hardware ambitions come as technology companies continue searching for the next major computing platform beyond smartphones.
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Several startups have attempted similar AI-first hardware concepts, but adoption has remained limited.
For now, OpenAI’s reported device remains speculative.
Still, if the company moves forward, it could signal a broader shift toward AI-native hardware experiences where apps may no longer be the primary way users interact with devices.
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