SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – OpenAI is venturing into the field of humanoid robotics as part of its effort to integrate artificial intelligence into the physical realm. CEO Sam Altman confirmed this initiative during an interview on Fortune’s Sources podcast, stating that the company anticipates unveiling a compelling prototype by 2027. However, robots operating publicly are expected to take a few additional years, Altman added. The company has yet to reveal details regarding the robot’s final design or its specific functionalities.
According to Altman, the primary hurdle is the development of the robot’s cognition. The system must possess the capability to interpret the environment, make decisions, and execute tasks with precision. Altman emphasized that physical aspects such as the robot’s appearance are of lesser importance compared to the intelligence that governs it. Since humanlike designs are suitable for environments tailored for humans—like doors, keyboards, and equipment—the CEO noted that OpenAI will also explore other form factors for its robots.
Currently, the company is actively recruiting specialists to create AI systems and motion control technologies for robots that interact effectively with the physical world. As reported by BigGo Finance, the careers page lists 27 open positions related to robotics. These roles encompass motion control, state estimation, actuator management, full-body behavior, and machine learning infrastructure for embodied AI training. Job ads reveal that the team is developing mechatronic actuators internally, while other listings focus on manufacturing and supply chain logistics for large-scale hardware production.
Development of Multi-Purpose Robots for Everyday Tasks
OpenAI’s goal is to create versatile robots capable of handling a broad spectrum of tasks. A recent job posting indicates a near-term focus on robots assisting skilled workers in infrastructure construction. The long-term aspiration involves personal robots that support individuals in their daily routines. Altman expressed his belief that everyone should have a personal robot, but realizing this vision will demand systems capable of understanding their surroundings and reacting to unforeseen circumstances both efficiently and safely.
This robotics initiative broadens OpenAI’s scope beyond software and AI infrastructure. The company’s interest in robotics is not new; it previously trained a robotic hand in 2019 to solve a Rubik’s Cube before disbanding that particular research team. Since then, OpenAI’s startup fund has invested in humanoid developers such as 1X and Figure AI. In February 2025, Figure ended its collaboration with OpenAI to focus on developing its own AI models.
Growing Competition in the Physical AI Sector
OpenAI faces stiff competition from numerous companies racing to develop humanoid robots. Tesla is working on its Optimus robot, while Figure AI has introduced its Figure 03 model. Chinese automaker XPeng has begun manufacturing its IRON humanoid, and Nvidia has expanded its physical AI work with robotics partners worldwide. Altman’s remarks suggest that OpenAI intends to differentiate itself by prioritizing the intelligence guiding its hardware.
Details about the 2027 demonstration or what the robot will resemble have not been disclosed by OpenAI. The company has not revealed pricing or launch timelines either. Altman highlighted that manufacturing capacity and infrastructure are prerequisites, and personal robots are currently not the top priority. Recruitment efforts are ongoing for engineers across the robotics division. Widespread deployment in homes and public areas is anticipated to require several more years.