OpenAI has stepped into the hardware space with the release of a $230 illuminated keyboard tailored for use with its coding assistant, Codex. Dubbed the Codex Micro, this device was developed in partnership with Work Louder, a specialist in custom keyboards. It's being marketed as a sleek new tool for ChatGPT users to oversee their AI coding agents—semiautonomous bots capable of writing and executing code with minimal human involvement. The keyboard features glowing "Agent Keys" that indicate agent status, customizable "Command Keys" for quick access to frequent Codex actions, and a joystick to launch common workflows. Additionally, a dial allows users to adjust the "reasoning" level—essentially controlling how much time and computing power an agent dedicates to a specific task. The concept is to transform the Micro into a "command center for agentic work," as OpenAI describes it, rather than managing agents through a phone or desktop app. It's also likely to add a striking visual element to any desk setup. The device can be controlled and customized through the ChatGPT desktop app, positioning it as a flashy introduction to OpenAI's hardware ambitions.

More significant hardware news emerged on Tuesday, revealing a yet-unreleased OpenAI device that Bloomberg reports is designed for long-term development. Described as a portable, screenless smart speaker that integrates with ChatGPT, it also includes "mechanical elements that can move on their own." At this stage, it's challenging to envision how these disparate features—screenless design, portability, and moving parts—will coalesce into a coherent product, especially since OpenAI has not provided further details. However, the concept is intriguing. The Bloomberg report emphasizes that the device is still in development and subject to changes. Interestingly, this new product is reportedly being engineered by former Apple employees, a company currently suing OpenAI for trade theft. This connection has not escaped notice, particularly from Apple, which recently filed a lawsuit accusing OpenAI's senior leadership of a deliberate effort to extract confidential information. Apple claims that OpenAI used this stolen data in developing its own hardware device, though OpenAI has denied any wrongdoing.