OpenAI CEO gifts Samsung executives custom hardware for AI interaction

A shift in human-computer interaction

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently visited a Samsung Group training center in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province. During a fireside chat with more than 50 presidents from Samsung Electronics and other affiliates, Altman presented the executives with a specialized piece of hardware. This gift serves as a physical manifestation of Altman's vision for how people will interact with computers in the future.

The device, known as the Codex Micro keyboard, is not intended for traditional typing. Instead, it is designed for what is described as 'vibe coding' using OpenAI’s Codex. Altman suggested that as voice commands and artificial intelligence become more prevalent, users may eventually find they no longer need a full keyboard to operate their devices.

By providing this hardware to Samsung leaders, Altman is highlighting a philosophy of transformation. He emphasized that simply adopting AI is not enough to maintain a competitive edge. Instead, he argued that companies must use AI to develop better products that fundamentally change the user experience.

How the Codex Micro works

Developed in collaboration with mechanical keyboard specialist Work Louder, the Codex Micro is OpenAI's first hardware product under its own brand. It functions as a macro pad, which is a device used to trigger complex commands or shortcuts with a single press. This differs from a standard keyboard where each key represents a specific character or letter.

The hardware includes 13 mechanical switches, including a dedicated 'Talk' button. It also features a rotary dial specifically for adjusting the reasoning level of the AI, along with a joystick and various touch sensors. These inputs allow users to interact with the AI more quickly and intuitively than using a standard mouse and keyboard setup.

Visual feedback is a core component of the device's design. It uses integrated lighting to indicate the status of the AI agent. This allows the user to see at a glance whether the AI is currently in a 'reasoning' phase—thinking through a problem—or in an 'executing' phase, where it is performing the actual task.

Deepening the Samsung partnership

The gift comes at a time of significant cooperation between OpenAI and Samsung. The two companies signed a letter of intent in October of last year to work on global AI infrastructure. This includes the supply of memory chips for OpenAI’s Stargate project, a massive undertaking for AI computing power.

The partnership extends across several Samsung divisions. Samsung SDS is cooperating on AI data center development and enterprise services, while Samsung C&T and Samsung Heavy Industries are working on floating offshore data centers. These moves show that the relationship is about more than just software; it is about the physical backbone of the AI era.

There are also rumors regarding specific hardware components. Reports suggested that Samsung could supply 2-nanometer Exynos application processors for OpenAI's hardware. While OpenAI has not confirmed its specific product plans, these processors would be essential for running on-device AI functions in devices like glasses or earbuds.

The road to AI hardware

While the Codex Micro keyboard is currently sold out, it represents a broader ambition for OpenAI. The company is reportedly exploring various hardware categories to house its models. These possibilities include a camera-embedded smart home speaker, AI glasses, and AI earbuds, some of which may involve collaboration with former Apple designer Jony Ive.

For Samsung, these potential products represent significant business opportunities. Devices like AI earbuds and glasses require high-performance application processors to run AI tasks locally on the device. By aligning with OpenAI's hardware vision, Samsung positions itself as a primary supplier for the next generation of consumer electronics.

Altman's visit to Samsung was part of a wider series of high-level meetings in the region. He also met with the leadership of SK Group, including the chairman of SK Group and executives from SK hynix and SK Telecom. These interactions suggest that the major tech players in Korea are closely watching OpenAI's transition into a hardware-integrated company.