- A new leak suggests OpenAI is developing a wearable to rival Apple’s AirPods
- The device, codenamed ‘Sweetpea’, functions as an earbud for ChatGPT
- It will reportedly be worn behind the ear, rather than inside
OpenAI, widely recognized for its ChatGPT chatbot, is reportedly collaborating with former Apple design expert Jony Ive to create a range of wearable products, including an AI-powered pen. A recent leak has unveiled more details about one of these devices.
A new leak on X has introduced a mysterious OpenAI device known as ‘Sweetpea’. This wearable, designed to be placed behind the ear, aims to compete with Apple’s popular AirPods.
Unlike traditional in-ear headphones, the Sweetpea modules will be primarily worn behind the ear, potentially resembling hearing aids more than standard earphones. This design choice could accommodate a larger battery and processor, allowing for extended usage time, which is crucial for an always-on AI device.
According to the leaker, Smart Pikachu, Sweetpea will incorporate a custom chip to facilitate commands to Siri, especially relevant as Apple has partnered with Google Gemini for Siri's AI enhancements.
Additionally, references to an ‘ultrasonic transmitter’ and signal pickup sensors suggest that Sweetpea could provide environmental sensing capabilities, enhancing its functionality beyond a simple Bluetooth receiver for ChatGPT, as noted by Wareable.
Expected to launch around September 2026, Smart Pikachu predicts that 40-50 million units could be shipped. However, the anticipated price may be high due to the cost of materials and components, comparable to that of a smartphone.
Sweetpea aligns with trends observed at CES 2026, where AI-first wearables are emerging as the next big innovation. OpenAI’s Sweetpea may be the breakthrough device that brings these products into the mainstream.