Noida, May 6 (APAC News): OpenAI is reportedly fast-tracking development of its first artificial intelligence (AI)-focused smartphone, with mass production targeted as early as the first half of 2027, according to media reports citing analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
The proposed device, described as an “AI agent phone”, is expected to mark the company’s entry into consumer hardware, expanding beyond its core software offerings such as ChatGPT. The move is seen as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving AI ecosystem, while also potentially supporting a future initial public offering narrative.
“OpenAI is fast-tracking development of its first AI agent phone, with mass production potentially targeted for the first half of 2027, driven by rising competition in AI-native smartphones and broader strategic considerations including an IPO narrative, while the device is expected to feature a customised MediaTek Dimensity 9600 chip built on TSMC’s N2P process, an enhanced HDR-focused ISP, dual-NPU architecture, LPDDR6 memory, UFS 5.0 storage, and advanced security features such as pKVM and inline hashing, with estimated combined shipments of around 30 million units for 2027–2028,” analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said on X.
【Industry Check Update】OpenAI appears to be fast-tracking its first AI agent phone, with mass production targeted as early as 1H27. Potential drivers include supporting a year-end IPO narrative and intensifying competition in AI agent phones. MediaTek currently appears better… https://t.co/wtumZ4XgA7
— 郭明錤｜Ming-Chi Kuo (@mingchikuo) May 5, 2026
Industry sources indicate that Taiwanese chipmaker MediaTek is likely to emerge as the sole processor supplier for the device. The smartphone is expected to run on a customised version of the Dimensity 9600 chipset, manufactured using TSMC’s advanced N2P process node, anticipated to enter production in the second half of 2026.
A key highlight of the device is expected to be its upgraded image signal processor (ISP), featuring an enhanced high dynamic range (HDR) pipeline. This is aimed at improving real-world visual sensing capabilities, which are considered critical for AI-driven applications that rely on continuous environmental awareness.
The device is also likely to incorporate a dual neural processing unit (NPU) architecture, enabling efficient handling of diverse AI workloads. Additional specifications may include next-generation LPDDR6 memory and UFS 5.0 storage to address data bandwidth constraints.
Security features such as protected kernel-based virtual machines (pKVM) and inline hashing are also expected to be integrated, enhancing system integrity and data protection.
If development proceeds as planned, analysts estimate that combined shipments in 2027 and 2028 could reach approximately 30 million units, underscoring strong ambitions in the competitive smartphone market.
Disclaimer: Views expressed are those of experts and do not reflect APAC Media. This is for informational purposes only, not financial advice. We are not responsible for investment decisions. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before investing.
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