OpenAI Developing 'SweetPea' AI Earbuds to Challenge Apple's AirPods

Reportedly, OpenAI has begun developing an artificial intelligence-powered audio device, codenamed SweetPea, to serve as a direct competitor to Apple Inc.'s AirPods.

Sam Altman with SweetPea earbuds – Photo generated with ChatGPT

The project involves collaboration with former Apple designer Jony Ive, whose firm OpenAI acquired in May 2024 for $6.5 billion.

The rumored SweetPea consists of a pebble-shaped metal charging case containing two capsule-like earpieces that position behind the ear rather than inside the canal.

The device integrates a custom Samsung Exynos 2nm-class processor to enable on-device AI processing for tasks such as voice commands and contextual interactions without cloud dependency.

Microphones and cameras in the earbuds allow continuous environmental awareness to provide proactive AI suggestions without a wake word.

OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman said of early versions:

"We have the first prototypes. I can’t believe how jaw-dropping good the work is and how exciting it is."

Ive commented on the approach to the hardware:

"I love solutions that teeter on the appearing, almost naïve, in their simplicity. And I also love incredibly intelligent, sophisticated products that you want to touch and you feel no intimidation, and you want to use almost carelessly so that you will use them almost without thought."

Foxconn handles manufacturing preparations for SweetPea and up to four additional OpenAI devices by the fourth quarter of 2028, which may include a home product and a pen-shaped item.

OpenAI projects a launch in September 2026 with first-year shipments of 40 million to 50 million units.

If launched, SweetPea will be the direct competitor of Apple's AirPods.