OpenAI unveils first hardware device amid Apple trade secret lawsuit

OpenAI launched its first hardware product on Wednesday in the midst of an Apple lawsuit, accusing the tech company of stealing trade secrets.

The ChatGPT maker unveiled a $230 worth Codex Micro keyboard that will be helpful for AI coding assistants for users of its Codex tool.

Speaking about its features, the miniature keyboard was built in collaboration with Work Louder, a hardware design company, featuring a joystick, 12 keyboard buttons, a rotary dial and USB-C connection. It is also equipped with Bluetooth capabilities.

“It makes jumping between tasks so much easier than ever before. And by the way, the analogue stick is a great fidget toy while you're waiting for Codex to complete its task,” OpenAI said in a demonstration video.

The launch of Codex Micro comes after Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI. As per the lawsuit, the iPhone maker alleged that the AI company stole confidential hardware designs and manufacturing processes to build their own consumer devices. OpenAI had done this by encouraging former employees of the Cupertino company to share the data.

However, OpenAI denied any wrongdoing, calling the accusations have no merit. The company added, "We believe in fair competition and allowing people the freedom to work wherever they choose, and we're focused on building innovative technology that empowers people everywhere."

The company is also reportedly partnering with former Apple designer Jony Ive to develop a groundbreaking and screenless humanlike AI companion.

Describing it as a “third core device,” Sam Altman called it “potentially the coolest piece of technology that the world will have ever seen."

However, the company has not yet released its official date.