SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – OpenAI is set to venture into the creation of humanoid robots, expanding its artificial intelligence applications from digital displays into tangible physical forms. During an episode of Fortune’s Sources podcast, CEO Sam Altman confirmed this initiative, informing host Alyson Shontell that the company plans to develop such robots. He mentioned that a compelling prototype for demonstration purposes should be prepared by 2027, although the wider deployment in public areas remains a few years down the line. As of now, the company has not disclosed details regarding the robot’s final design or its specific functions.
Altman emphasized that the most challenging aspect lies in the robot’s cognitive system rather than its physical structure, stating that the AI must interpret real-world information, make decisions, and execute tasks with high precision. He pointed out that the robot’s physical form is considerably less important than the control system that operates it. A humanlike appearance is advantageous because many objects such as doors, keyboards, and various equipment are designed for human interaction. Altman also indicated that OpenAI plans to develop robots in other shapes and configurations beyond humanoids.
To support this development, OpenAI is actively recruiting specialists in AI systems and motion control to enhance how its robots engage with their environment. According to BigGo Finance, the company’s careers page currently lists 27 open positions related to robotics, including roles focused on state estimation, actuator control, full-body behavior, and machine learning infrastructure for embodied AI. These listings reveal ongoing efforts in designing mechatronic actuators that integrate motors, transmissions, sensors, and thermal management systems. Additional openings are related to manufacturing processes and supply chain logistics to enable scaled production.
From infrastructure support to personal assistant robots
OpenAI envisions its robots as versatile, general-purpose machines capable of performing a wide array of tasks. One of the early targeted applications involves assisting skilled workers in constructing infrastructure. Looking further ahead, the company envisions personal robots that can help individuals at home and assist with daily activities. Altman expressed the belief that everyone should have their own personal robot, although manufacturing capacity and logistical readiness take precedence at this stage. These robots will need to comprehend their environment and adapt to unexpected situations with safety and efficiency.
This new venture into robotics marks a return to an area the company explored years ago; in 2019, its researchers successfully taught a robotic hand to solve a Rubik’s Cube before shifting focus toward language models. Since then, OpenAI’s startup investments have supported humanoid manufacturers such as 1X and Figure AI, although its partnership with the latter ended in February 2025. Furthermore, OpenAI has established a formal process for reporting AI misalignment issues as its systems grow more capable.
Growing competition in the physical AI space heats up
OpenAI is now among several companies advancing humanoid robots, with Tesla developing its Optimus robot, and Figure AI unveiling Figure 03. Chinese automaker XPeng has begun manufacturing its IRON humanoid, and other firms like Samsung and BYD are actively working on similar projects, as reported by Ubergizmo. Nvidia has expanded its physical AI efforts through collaborations with robotics partners worldwide. Altman’s comments imply that OpenAI’s strategy to compete will emphasize the intelligence layer that directs the hardware, rather than hardware development alone.
Details regarding the 2027 demonstration event remain undisclosed, with no information provided about the robot’s appearance, pricing, or specific launch timelines. Initial models are expected to be aimed at industrial infrastructure and construction work, as suggested by Ubergizmo. Altman stated that manufacturing capacity and infrastructure development will come before deploying personal robots for consumers. The company continues to expand its robotics team, but it will likely take several more years before robots are widely integrated into homes and public environments.