OpenAI, which previously dismissed making smart glasses, is now reportedly reconsidering the idea and exploring a line of wearable devices including glasses and other form factors.
What’s Changed in OpenAI’s Stance
OpenAI’s CEO once publicly stated that he does not like smart glasses and ruled them out as a hardware direction. However, newer reports indicate that the company is reconsidering. They are now evaluating not only a pocket-sized AI device but also exploring smart glasses, wearables like pins, and even voice recorders as possible extensions of their hardware lineup.
What Hardware Products Are Under Consideration
Among the devices under discussion, besides glasses, are a screenless, pocket-sized AI gadget, a smart speaker, a wearable pin, and a digital voice recorder. These options reflect a diversification strategy as OpenAI expands from purely software into consumer devices. If glasses are chosen, their release would likely be some years out, not immediately.
Timeline & Expectations
Any new hardware, including possible glasses, would not appear until late 2026 or 2027 at the earliest. OpenAI seems to be in the exploratory stage — considering designs, supply chains, and manufacturing partners. The glasses, if produced, might leverage contextual AI features, meaning they could respond to environment, voice, or other input data automatically.
Potential Challenges & Market Context
Making smart glasses is complex: battery life, comfort, weight, display visibility, privacy, and usefulness are all major concerns. Also, competitors like Meta, Apple, Google are already investing heavily in wearables and AR/VR. OpenAI may face high expectations to offer something truly innovative in functionality and design.
