OpenAI is intensifying its efforts in developing audio artificial intelligence models, aiming to prepare the technology for upcoming voice-first smart hardware. Over the past two months, OpenAI has integrated multiple engineering, product, and research teams to focus on advancing audio interaction technologies, enhancing the performance of voice AI models in dialogue and response capabilities.

According to insiders, current voice dialogue audio models still fall short of text models in terms of accuracy and response speed. Therefore, OpenAI is accelerating its architectural upgrades, with the new generation of audio models expected to be released in the first quarter of 2026. This model will feature more natural and emotionally expressive speech output and will better handle real-time interruptions and interactive scenarios during conversations.

This audio technology upgrade is not only aimed at improving the existing voice experience but is also closely related to OpenAI's upcoming voice-first personal devices. It is reported that this device is expected to enter the market in about a year and may not be a single product but rather a series of devices in various forms, such as screenless smart glasses or voice assistants with minimal screens. The design concept aims to reduce reliance on screens and enhance user experience through natural voice communication.

In addition, the new audio model is expected to support a "speak while listening" function, meaning it can start responding before the user finishes speaking, to achieve smoother real-time interaction experiences, which are not common in many current voice AIs. In summary, OpenAI is accelerating toward a future where "voice is the core interface," which represents both a shift in its product development strategy and an adaptation to potential changes in the screen-based interaction model in the tech industry.

Key points:

🗣️ OpenAI is strengthening its development of audio AI models to prepare for future voice-first smart hardware.  

🔄 The next-generation audio model is expected to be released in 2026, featuring more natural and emotionally expressive speech output.  

🕶️ The upcoming device series will reduce reliance on screens and improve user experience through natural voice communication.