The race for AI earbuds just got real: OpenAI’s ‘Sweetpea’ takes on AirPods
A new leak suggests OpenAI is developing AI-powered earbuds codenamed “Sweetpea” that could fundamentally change what we expect from wireless audio devices.
According to a detailed post from consumer electronics blogger @zhihuipikachu, OpenAI’s collaboration with io Products (the design firm founded by former Apple designer Jony Ive) is targeting a September release for earbuds that aim to directly challenge AirPods. The ambition is huge: first-year production volumes of 40-50 million units, putting it in flagship smartphone territory.
Hearing fresh detail on Openai “To-go” hardware project from last report. Now confirmed it is a special audio product to replace Airpod, internal code name is “Sweetpea”
On manufacturing, Foxconn has been told to prepare for total 5 devices by Q4 2028. All not known but a home… https://t.co/svOCBuyapI pic.twitter.com/SFumFfRIeF
— 智慧皮卡丘 Smart Pikachu (Weibo) (@zhihuipikachu) January 12, 2026
The technical specifications hint at OpenAI’s vision for audio-first computing. The leaked details describe a 2nm smartphone-class chip — not the typical low-power processor found in most wireless earbuds — alongside a custom chip designed to “replace iPhone actions by commanding Siri.” The design itself reportedly features a metal “eggstone” case with two pill-shaped earbuds that rest behind the ear.
You can add a ChatGPT widget to your Nothing phone’s home screen.
If accurate, Sweetpea represents some validation for my idea that wireless earbuds are evolving beyond simple audio devices into full-fledged computing platforms. The device aligns with broader industry trends toward AI-first interfaces and the integration of advanced sensors and processors into everyday wearables.
The $6.5 billion OpenAI-io partnership has been one of the tech industry’s most closely watched collaborations since its announcement. With Jony Ive’s legendary design expertise and OpenAI’s AI capabilities, expectations are high. The focus on audio-first interaction also addresses a challenge many AI hardware projects have faced: pins, pendants, and smart glasses have struggled to find mainstream adoption, while earbuds are already ubiquitous.
The leak mentions Foxconn preparing for five total devices by Q4 2028, including a pen and home device, though Sweetpea has been prioritized. Sources indicate the bill of materials is “closer to a phone BOM,” suggesting these won’t be cheap, but OpenAI clearly believes the functionality justifies the cost.
Of course, ambitious hardware projects often stumble between leak and launch. The real questions remain: Can OpenAI deliver meaningful AI functionality that justifies smartphone-class hardware in your ears? Will the audio quality meet expectations for a premium product? And most importantly, are consumers ready to embrace earbuds as their primary computing interface?
One thing is certain: if this leak is accurate, the competition for AI-powered audio devices just entered a new phase.
