OpenAI Unveils New Hardware Designed for Codex

OpenAI is stepping into the hardware arena with a new device, but it’s not the much-anticipated AI gadget being developed alongside former Apple designer Jony Ive, which is currently embroiled in a legal dispute. Instead, the focus is on a product tailored for its coding platform, Codex.

Introducing the Codex Micro, a compact square device featuring an array of buttons, created in partnership with keyboard manufacturer Work Louder. This limited-edition collaboration aims to enhance how users monitor and manage their Codex agents.

The Codex Micro bears a striking resemblance to Work Louder’s Creator Micro 2, showcasing a similar layout of 13 mechanical switches, along with a joystick, dial, and touch sensor. It also shares design elements with another pad that Work Louder developed with Figma in 2023.

Priced at $230, the Codex Micro will be available through Supply Co while supplies last, though OpenAI hasn’t disclosed the total number of units produced for this collaboration.

In a video detailing the device, Work Louder cofounder Mike Di Genova highlighted that the Micro features six frosted keys that provide a “live view of your Codex threads,” using various colors to indicate task statuses, such as completion, feedback needed, running, or errors. Additionally, there are command keys for common actions like push-to-talk, accepting or rejecting changes, and sending messages, along with 32 extra keycaps featuring Codex icons. The joystick and dial can be utilized to initiate workflows and adjust reasoning levels, respectively, with all controls being customizable via the ChatGPT desktop app.

This device is distinct from OpenAI’s main hardware project in development with Ive. While details remain scarce, it’s rumored to be a smart speaker that facilitates conversations with ChatGPT, with a potential launch slated for next year. This project has recently faced increased scrutiny following a lawsuit from Apple, which accuses OpenAI of misappropriating hardware secrets, claims that OpenAI has denied.