OpenAI has officially entered the hardware market by launching the Codex Micro, a keyboard that integrates with its AI coding assistant service, Codex.

On July 15, local time, IT outlet TechCrunch reported that the Codex Micro costs $230 and supports ChatGPT users in physically managing multiple AI coding agents.

OpenAI designed the Codex Micro in collaboration with keyboard specialist designer Work Louder. The company said it applies a new way to manage semi-autonomous coding agents that write and run code with little human involvement.

The Codex Micro includes an illuminated “agent key” that shows agent status. It also offers shortcut keys for frequently used Codex tasks and a joystick for running general workflows. The device also includes a dial that adjusts the level of reasoning an agent uses for a specific task. The dial adjusts the time spent on a task and the scale of computing resources used.

Users can use the device as a command centre for agent tasks instead of a phone or desktop app. Product control and settings can be handled in the ChatGPT desktop app.

The Codex Micro is a limited-production collaboration product. TechCrunch reported that it is less a flagship product for mass sales than a signal of OpenAI’s entry into the hardware market.

More noteworthy hardware news is another device that has not yet been disclosed. The device is described as a screenless portable smart speaker that links to ChatGPT and is said to include mechanical elements that can move on their own. Because it is still in development, detailed specifications may change.

Apple engineers are said to be involved in developing the unreleased device. Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI last week, claiming OpenAI senior executives took its confidential information and used it for in-house hardware development. OpenAI denied wrongdoing.