OpenAI is entering the hardware market with the launch of the Codex Micro, a $230 light-up keyboard co-designed with Work Louder to pair with its AI coding assistant, Codex. The device features light-up “Agent Keys” showing agent status, customizable shortcut keys, a joystick for common workflows, and a dial to adjust how much computing power an AI agent uses on a task. OpenAI described it as a command center for managing AI coding agents, controllable through the ChatGPT desktop app. The company said the Micro is a limited-run collaboration rather than a mass-market product.
More significant hardware developments emerged separately, as a report revealed OpenAI is developing a portable, screenless smart speaker that integrates with ChatGPT and includes mechanical elements capable of independent movement. The device remains in development, according to the report, with details still subject to change. It is reportedly being designed in part by former Apple engineers, a detail that has drawn scrutiny given ongoing litigation between the two companies. Apple recently sued OpenAI, alleging that senior OpenAI leadership pursued a deliberate strategy to obtain Apple’s confidential information and used it in developing its own hardware device. OpenAI has denied the allegations.
Featured image: Credit: OpenAI
