OpenAI's first hardware is reported to launch this year, similar to AirPods, but is affected by memory shortages and needs to be "downgraded."
OpenAI plans to launch its first hardware "Dime," similar to AirPods, expected to be released this year. Due to memory shortages, the originally high-spec design has been simplified, and the final product will be a basic pair of headphones. The product was initially set to feature a high-performance Exynos chip with independent computing capabilities, but adjustments were made due to cost issues. It is expected to be produced by Foxconn in Vietnam, with a first-year sales target of 40 to 50 million units. In addition, OpenAI is also developing a second device called "Gumdrop," focusing on environmental awareness and interaction
Tech insider Smart Pikachu revealed on the social platform X on Saturday (7th) that OpenAI's first hardware, internally codenamed "Sweetpea," has been named "Dime." It is a headphone product similar to Apple's AirPods and is expected to be launched this year. The post mentioned that OpenAI originally planned to create a "phone-like" headphone device, but due to a shortage of memory chip supplies, component prices skyrocketed, leading to a delay in development.
Original Plan Featured Independent Computing Power Comparable to Smartphones
The original technical blueprint for the product was highly disruptive, featuring a Samsung 2nm process Exynos chip, which would give the headphones independent computing power comparable to smartphones for complex AI processing. However, due to the continuously high prices of storage components, the BOM cost of the high-spec chip solution spiraled out of control, ultimately forcing OpenAI to compromise and revert the first generation of "Dime" to a "simple headphone" form.
Additionally, reports indicate that OpenAI may officially launch the product named "Dime" in September this year, potentially produced by Foxconn in Vietnam, with plans to achieve sales of 40 to 50 million units in the first year.
Furthermore, OpenAI is also developing a second consumer-grade device codenamed "Gumdrop," which resembles a pen or Apple iPod Shuffle, featuring a screenless design focused on environmental awareness and interaction. Core functions include achieving situational awareness through a camera and microphone, running locally customized AI models, and supported by cloud computing power; it supports real-time conversion of handwritten notes into text and uploading to ChatGPT; and has communication capabilities similar to smartphones
