OpenAI’s Upcoming Audio Model: A New Era for Voice Interfaces?

OpenAI plans to introduce a new audio model in the first quarter of 2026, marking a significant step towards creating hardware devices with voice control. The Information reports, citing sources familiar with the company’s plans, including current and former employees. According to the publication, OpenAI has united several teams from engineering, product development, and research departments under one initiative aimed at improving audio models. The company believes that the current audio models lag behind text in terms of accuracy and speed.

It is also noted that only a few ChatGPT users prefer the voice interface over text. OpenAI hopes that significant improvement in audio models will change user behavior and increase the popularity of voice interfaces, allowing models and products to be implemented in a wider range of devices, such as automobiles.

In the coming year, OpenAI plans to launch a line of hardware devices, starting with audio-oriented devices. Within the company, various form factors for future devices are being discussed, including smart speakers and glasses, but the emphasis is on voice interfaces rather than screens.