According to The Verge, Meta and OpenAI are both planning to move into dedicated AI hardware over the coming year, despite the category’s track record of difficulty. The piece notes that AI has spread across phones and computers but has largely failed in standalone devices. Earlier efforts, including the Friend and the Humane AI Pin, drew mainly frustration and backlash. The report frames both companies as taking a similar approach: using software agents to gauge consumer interest before committing further to physical products. OpenAI is said to be collaborating with former Apple designer Jony Ive. The article was published around OpenAI’s DevDay 2026, where Sam Altman appeared onstage.
Why it matters
The report highlights an industry mantra that “hardware is hard,” and suggests public sentiment toward AI could complicate new device launches. Two of the largest AI companies attempting the same path signals renewed interest in a space where previous entrants struggled.
Who should care
Readers tracking AI product strategy, consumer hardware, and the moves of Meta and OpenAI will find this relevant.