SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – In a move announced in the United States, OpenAI is preparing to develop humanoid robots, aiming to extend its artificial intelligence technology from digital interfaces into tangible, physical forms. CEO Sam Altman confirmed this initiative during Fortune’s Sources podcast, where he told host Alyson Shontell that the company will create such robots. He indicated that a compelling prototype should be ready for demonstration by 2027. Widespread deployment in public environments remains several years away. The company has not revealed the final design or the specific functions intended for the robot.
Altman emphasized that the most challenging aspect is the robot’s brain rather than its physical structure. The AI must interpret real-world scenarios, make decisions, and perform tasks with high accuracy. He added that the robot’s shape is less critical than the system that operates it. A humanlike form is considered effective because doors, keyboards, and other devices are designed for human use. Altman also noted that OpenAI will certainly develop humanoid robots and explore other form factors as well.
To support this endeavor, OpenAI is hiring experts in AI systems and motion control to enhance robot interaction with their surroundings. BigGo Finance identified 27 open robotics positions on the company’s careers page, covering areas such as state estimation, actuator control, full-body behavior, and machine learning infrastructure for embodied AI. Job listings mention designing mechatronic actuators that integrate motors, transmissions, sensors, and thermal management, along with manufacturing and supply chain work to facilitate scaled production.
From construction sites to household assistants
OpenAI envisions creating general-purpose robots capable of performing a wide array of tasks. One of the early focus areas, according to a job posting, is assisting skilled workers in infrastructure development. Over the long term, the company foresees personal robots that can support individuals at home and in daily life. Altman expressed that everyone should have a personal robot, but emphasized that manufacturing capacity is the priority at this stage. These robots will need to understand their environment and adapt to unexpected situations safely and efficiently.
This renewed interest in robotics marks a return to an area once explored by OpenAI. In 2019, its researchers trained a robotic hand to solve a Rubik’s Cube. The team was later disbanded, and the company shifted focus to language models. Its startup fund backed humanoid robot developers 1X and Figure AI. However, Figure AI ended its partnership with OpenAI in February 2025. Additionally, OpenAI has established a formal process for reporting AI misalignment issues as its systems become increasingly capable.
Increasing competition in physical AI development
OpenAI joins an expanding roster of companies working on humanoid robots. Tesla is developing its Optimus robot, while Figure AI has unveiled Figure 03. Chinese automaker XPeng has started production of its IRON humanoid. Samsung and BYD are also involved in humanoid projects, according to Ubergizmo. Nvidia has expanded its physical AI efforts with robotics partners worldwide. Altman’s statements suggest that OpenAI aims to compete by focusing on the intelligence layer that directs the hardware, rather than the hardware itself.
Details regarding the 2027 demo remain undisclosed, including pricing, launch timelines, or the robot’s appearance. Initial units are expected to primarily target industrial infrastructure and construction tasks, according to Ubergizmo. Altman stated that developing manufacturing capacity and infrastructure takes precedence over consumer personal robots. The company is actively recruiting for its robotics team, with broader deployment in homes and public spaces anticipated to take several more years.