OpenAI is fast-tracking its audio AI development to support a new screenless hardware device designed by Jony Ive, targeting a Q1 2026 launch for its advanced full-duplex voice model, with the hardware expected in early 2027. This rapid timeline contrasts sharply with delays at Google and Apple, which have postponed their next-gen voice assistants to Spring 2026. OpenAI aims to overcome the challenge of seamless voice interaction by achieving low latency, allowing users to speak simultaneously and handle interruptions intuitively. The strategic unification of its engineering, product, and research teams enhances audio development, positioning the upcoming model to outperform current offerings. As a result, OpenAI’s new device promises a transformative user experience, facilitating passive interaction without visual feedback. This aggressive approach positions OpenAI favorably against its competitors, as both Google and Apple confront challenges with their AI-driven assistants, such as reliability issues with their models.
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