OpenAI is gearing up to launch a new audio language model by early 2026, aiming to pave the way for an audio-based hardware device expected in 2027. Efforts are underway to enhance audio models, which are currently seen as lagging behind text models in terms of accuracy and speed, by uniting multiple teams across engineering, product, and research. Despite the current preference for text interfaces among ChatGPT users, OpenAI hopes that improved audio models will encourage more users to adopt voice interfaces, broadening the deployment of their technology in various devices, such as cars. The company envisions a future lineup of audio-focused devices, including smart speakers and glasses, emphasizing audio interfaces over screen-based ones.
