tech
January 3, 2026
OpenAI reorganizes some teams to build audio-based AI hardware products
Voice has lagged in adoption behind screens. OpenAI wants to change that.
TL;DR
- OpenAI plans to announce a new audio language model in Q1 2026.
- This audio model is a step towards creating audio-based physical hardware devices.
- The company is consolidating teams to improve audio models, which are seen as less advanced than text models.
- OpenAI hopes improved audio models will encourage the use of voice interfaces.
- A family of physical devices, starting with an audio-focused one, is planned for release in the coming years.
- Competitors like Google, Meta, and Amazon are also focusing R&D on voice and audio interfaces.
- Some developers believe voice-controlled products may be less addictive than screen-based ones.
- OpenAI's first audio-focused physical device is expected to ship in about a year.
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