Beyond ChatGPT: OpenAI’s Clues Point to Launch of Robots and Smart Devices
Going Beyond ChatGPT: A Hint Suggests that OpenAI is Gearing Up to Launch Robots and Other Smart Devices
Tl;dr
- OpenAI could potentially enter the hardware business.
- A recent patent application includes numerous hardware devices.
- CEO Sam Altman has hinted at such a move in recent statements.
Is OpenAI Venturing into Hardware?
OpenAI, the organization spearheaded by Sam Altman, has left its mark in the realm of generative artificial intelligence, thanks to the success of ChatGPT, which made its debut in late 2022. Since then, the company has launched several software services, including an image generator, a video creator and various models aimed at enhancing automation in different tasks. But will this software-focused group venture into the hardware business?
A Glimpse into OpenAI’s Future
A recent patent application by OpenAI suggests that the company might indeed be considering a move into hardware. The document, submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), details a range of potential products that could be manufactured by the creators of ChatGPT. These include headphones, smart glasses, smartphones, remote controls, cases, wearable devices, and virtual and augmented reality helmets. In the patent, these devices are described as equipment for “interaction, simulation, and training with AI assistance”.
This patent application follows statements made by Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, to The Elec, in which he indicated that the company is indeed planning to manufacture AI-boosted consumer hardware. This move, according to Altman, will be made possible through partnerships with multiple companies, but it will be “several years” before the results of these collaborations are visible.
OpenAI’s Alleged Robot and Other Ventures
Apart from the conventional products such as smartphones and smartwatches, the patent application also includes humanoid robots. If realized, these developments could place OpenAI in competition with Elon Musk’s Tesla and their Optimus automaton, which is expected to hit the market in the coming years at a price around $30,000.
In recent months, OpenAI has begun hiring robotics specialists to form a team led by Caitlin Kalinowski, former member of Meta’s augmented reality division. This move further bolsters the speculation about OpenAI’s foray into hardware.
Will OpenAI Really Launch Its Own Hardware?
While OpenAI’s recent actions suggest a keen interest in hardware development, it does not necessarily mean that all the products mentioned in the patent will make it to the market. However, it is expected that OpenAI will increase its involvement in the chip sector, a crucial component for scaling the power of its AI models. Towards this end, it is reported that the company intends to launch a custom processor with semiconductor manufacturers Broadcom and TSMC next year.