OpenAI is ramping up its commercialization drive, as its inaugural AI hardware product has now progressed into substantive development phases and is anticipated to make an official debut in the latter half of this year. This product, crafted in partnership with Apple's ex - Chief Design Officer, is envisioned as a 'screen - less AI companion centered on voice interaction'. It boasts a wearable design and goes by the internal code names 'Gumdrop' or 'Sweetpea'. The first prototype of this innovative device has already been successfully completed.

In the meantime, OpenAI has kicked off its ad business testing. From the 16th onward, ChatGPT Go will be rolled out globally. In the coming weeks, ad testing will be conducted for free users in the U.S. as well as for Go subscribers. However, premium subscription services will continue to be ad - free. This strategic move is a response to the dual challenges of expanding the user base and soaring operational costs. Ad revenue is poised to become a crucial supplementary income stream.

According to OpenAI's Chief Financial Officer, the company projects that its annualized revenue will surpass $20 billion by 2025. The focus for 2026 will be on propelling practical AI applications across various fields, exploring sustainable development avenues through quantifiable value creation.