OpenAI and Jony Ive’s mysterious AI device is targeted for mass production in 2027, according to respected supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The collaboration between the AI research powerhouse and Apple’s former design chief has ambitious manufacturing plans, with The Wall Street Journal reporting an intended production run of 100 million units. This wearable device represents a significant hardware play in the emerging consumer AI market, though its exact functionality remains largely shrouded in secrecy.
The big picture: The AI wearable is currently designed as a compact, elegant device meant to be worn around the neck, drawing design inspiration from the iPod Shuffle while being slightly larger than Humane’s AI Pin.
Key details: The device will feature cameras and microphones to capture the user’s environment and provide contextual awareness, but will reportedly rely on a smartphone for computing power and display capabilities.
Manufacturing strategy: Mass production is scheduled to begin in 2027, with assembly and shipping planned to occur outside China, likely in Vietnam.
What’s still unclear: The device is not positioned as a smartphone or smart glasses alternative, leaving significant questions about its precise functionality, user interface, and target use cases.
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