OpenAI is preparing to launch its first hardware product, according to a Chinese tipster on Weibo. The report claims the company is developing a pair of AI-powered earbuds that will use OpenAI’s own artificial intelligence model.

The product would represent OpenAI’s entry into the consumer hardware market.

Alternative Products

Earlier reports suggested OpenAI was working on alternative hardware designs, including a small pendant or pen-like device. These concepts aligned with comments from OpenAI Chief Executive Sam Altman, who said the device would be more “peaceful and calm” than a smartphone.

OpenAI’s hardware plans also drew attention after the company hired former Apple chief designer Jony Ive.

However, the latest report suggests OpenAI has adjusted its strategy and chosen to develop earbuds instead, likely due to rising hardware development costs.

Launch Date

The earbuds are expected to be called “Dime,” according to the tipster. The report stated that the product could be launched by the end of this year.

Further details about the earbuds’ features or specifications were not provided.

Advanced Version Planned

The report added that OpenAI plans to introduce a more advanced version of the product once supply conditions improve, specifically after the shortage of high-bandwidth memory eases.

High-bandwidth memory is used in artificial intelligence systems to support high-speed data processing.

HONOR has become the fastest-growing major smartphone brand globally in 2025, driven by strong performance in international premium markets, according to a report by research firm Omdia.

The growth comes ahead of the company’s plans to introduce new artificial intelligence-focused and foldable devices this spring.

Omdia reported that HONOR recorded 11% year-over-year growth in global smartphone shipments during 2025. This growth rate placed the company first among the world’s top ten smartphone vendors.

Separate data from International Data Corporation (IDC) showed that HONOR also led overseas shipment growth among top smartphone brands during the first three quarters of 2025 in key premium categories.

These included smartphones priced above $300, covering premium and upper mid-tier segments, and tablets priced between $300 and $600, targeting upper mid-tier consumers.

HONOR President of Sales and Services Wang Ban acknowledged the growth in a post on Weibo.

The performance across both smartphones and tablets indicates that the company has combined shipment volume growth with expansion into higher margin segments.

New AI and Foldable Devices Coming

HONOR is expected to unveil new devices at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona this March. Reports indicate the company will introduce the HONOR ROBOT PHONE, described as an AI-integrated smartphone, and the next-generation foldable flagship, the HONOR Magic V6.

These devices are part of HONOR’s Alpha Plan, a strategy focused on artificial intelligence and new device form factors.

Zong, Pakistan’s leading Information Services and Technology Innovation Company, is partnering with the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MOITT) for Indus AI Week 2026, Pakistan’s flagship national initiative on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This represents a defining step in Pakistan’s journey toward responsible, scalable, and inclusive AI adoption and adaptation. This event brings together national to international AI Experts, industry and government leadership to engage in high-level dialogue and envision future of Artificial Intelligence in Pakistan.

Zong’s strategic partnership with Indus AI Week 2026, reflects its commitment and leadership in Pakistan’s journey toward Digital Transformation. It is defined by artificial intelligence, intelligent networks, innovation-driven infrastructure and digital platform. As a technology leader, Zong is expanding beyond connectivity, enabling digital capabilities required to scale AI across sectors and institutions.  This partnership is augmented by China Mobile’s global technological leadership, bringing deep expertise in AI, Cloud, Big Data, and next-generation networks.

On 9th and 10th February, at the Indus Innovation, Learning & Engagement Arena (AI marketplace – Sports Complex Islamabad), Zong will assert its technological leadership by showcasing a comprehensive portfolio of AI-driven solutions, products, and digital services designed to accelerate Pakistan’s intelligent transformation. Zong’s showcase spans advanced AI platforms, consumer and enterprise solutions, and digital ecosystems, including Z-AIVA, Zong A-EYE, OZ GPT, My Zong App, next-generation gaming platforms, and more, demonstrating the depth and maturity of its AI capabilities across multiple use cases and industries.

A key highlight of the showcase will be the unveiling of Z-Smart Hub, a powerful convergence of Z-SAIS Cloud and DICT, enabling secure, scalable, and intelligent digital services. Complementing this will be the introduction of next-generation ZTE AI-enabled handsets and smart glasses, reinforcing Zong’s commitment to delivering best-in-class, future-ready technology experiences.

On the partnership with MOITT AI Indus Week, Mr. Huo Junli, Chairman & CEO, Zong said, “Artificial Intelligence is now central to economic competitiveness and national progress. Zong’s partnership with Indus AI Week 2026 reflects our commitment to lead Pakistan’s transition toward an intelligence-driven digital economy. By combining advanced networks, intelligent platforms, and China Mobile’s global technological expertise, we are enabling a resilient AI ecosystem, one that empowers innovation, strengthens digital sovereignty, and delivers long-term value for the country”.

Through this partnership, Zong is institutionalizing its role as a national digital enabler, driving Pakistan’s transition to a high-value, AI-led economy. Zong is aligning global expertise with national priorities to contribute future-ready and resilient Digital Pakistan.