OpenAI is officially stepping into the hardware sector with the debut of a $230 illuminated keyboard tailored to connect with its AI coding assistant, Codex.

The Codex Micro, developed in collaboration with specialty keyboard manufacturer Work Louder, is being promoted as an elegant new method for ChatGPT users to oversee their collection of AI coding agents — these semi-autonomous bots that can generate and perform code with minimal human intervention.

The gadget features illuminated “Agent Keys” that indicate agent status, customizable Command Keys serving as shortcuts for common Codex operations, and a joystick for initiating typical workflows. Additionally, it includes a dial that modifies the extent of “reasoning” — in essence, the duration and computing resources an agent utilizes for a particular task (agent reasoning level).

The concept is that, rather than managing your agents through your mobile device or desktop application, you can now utilize the Micro as your “command center for agentic work,” as stated by OpenAI. It’s likely to be quite an attractive addition to your desk as well. The device can be controlled and tailored through the ChatGPT desktop application.

OpenAI informed TechCrunch via email that the Micro represents a limited-edition collaboration, indicating that it’s more of a novelty than a commodity aimed at mass consumption. It appears to be a stylish trinket intended to announce the firm’s entry into the hardware domain.

More significant hardware news emerged on Tuesday. A soon-to-be-unveiled OpenAI device revealed by Bloomberg appears to be built for longevity. It’s characterized as a portable, screenless smart speaker that interfaces with ChatGPT and consists of “mechanical elements that can autonomously move.” 

At this point, it’s challenging to conceive how all of these varied aspects — screenless, portable, moving components — will merge into a cohesive product (OpenAI is not disclosing information). However, it certainly paints an intriguing scenario. It seems that development is still ongoing. The Bloomberg report emphasizes that the item remains in progress and may undergo modifications.

This forthcoming device is also allegedly being crafted by former engineers from Apple — a company currently pursuing legal action against OpenAI for trade secrets theft.

That connection hasn’t escaped attention, particularly from Apple. Last week, Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that the company’s senior executives have engaged in a calculated strategy to obtain its confidential information; they claim OpenAI utilized that data while developing its own hardware device. OpenAI has refuted the allegations.