OpenAI is focusing on developing audio AI and preparing for a device era without screens, TechCrunch reported on Jan. 1, citing The Information.

The report said OpenAI has been integrating its engineering, product and research teams in recent months to overhaul its audio models. It plans to launch an audio-focused personal device within a year.

Meta added a feature to its Ray-Ban smart glasses by installing 5 microphones to make conversations clear even amid noise. Google is experimenting with an "Audio Overview" that provides search results as conversational summaries. Tesla is developing technology that uses its in-car AI assistant, "Grok", to handle everything from navigation to air-conditioning controls through natural-language dialogue.

Startups are also challenging audio-focused AI devices. Humane's AI Pin billed itself as a screenless wearable, but failed after burning through large amounts of funding. The AI pendant "Friend" records a user's life and plays the role of a companion, but has sparked controversy over privacy infringement.

AI rings scheduled to be released in 2026 offer a new interface by enabling direct conversation through the hand.

OpenAI plans to unveil a new audio model in early 2026 that can carry out natural voice conversations. The model can also interrupt during real-time conversations and operates more like a human than existing AI voices. OpenAI is also developing audio-focused devices such as glasses or screenless smart speakers.