OpenAI developing humanoid robots, Sam Altman hints at 2027 demo:Indicates that the AI brain matters more than how the robot looks

OpenAI may soon move beyond AI chatbots and enter the world of humanoid robots. CEO Sam Altman has revealed that the company is working on its own human-like robot and suggested that people could get their first look at it in 2027.
While the project is still under development, the company appears to be focusing on the AI technology that would help these robots understand their surroundings and perform tasks. Why does OpenAI want to build humanoid robots?
OpenAI is best known for developing AI models such as ChatGPT. However, the company now appears to be exploring how its AI technology can be used in physical machines. Speaking on the Sources podcast, Altman explained why robots designed like humans could be useful. He pointed out that most of the world has been built around the human body, from doors and staircases to everyday tools and equipment. Altman said: The world is very much designed for people. Matching that form factor seems good. In simple terms, a robot with a human-like body could find it easier to move around homes, offices and factories and use objects that were designed for people. OpenAI humanoid robot could be revealed in 2027 People hoping to see OpenAI’s humanoid robot may have to wait a little longer. During a conversation with Fortune, Altman suggested that the company could demonstrate the robot in 2027. He said: I think we’ll have a cool demo in 2027. However, this does not mean that humanoid robots will soon become a common sight on roads or in public spaces. Altman believes it will take several more years before robots become widespread enough to walk around streets regularly.
The company has not yet revealed what its robot will look like, what tasks it will perform, or when it might become commercially available. Also read: Why does ISRO test methane rocket despite its dangerous nature?: Inspired by SpaceX’s Starship technology, the powerful engine aims to advance India’s space ambitions

The real challenge is building the robot’s AI brain
OpenAI appears to be prioritising the AI brain behind its humanoid robot over its physical appearance. The technology would help robots understand their surroundings, recognise objects, plan movements and perform tasks. OpenAI has previously explored robotics through its Dactyl project, which trained a robotic hand to solve a Rubik’s Cube.
Reports also suggest the company has established a humanoid robotics lab and listed 27 robotics-related job openings, indicating plans to develop both robot intelligence and manufacturing capabilities. Tesla and Chinese companies are already developing humanoids
OpenAI is entering a field where several companies have already made significant progress. Tesla has been developing its Optimus humanoid robot for years, with Elon Musk highlighting its potential to perform tasks using AI. Chinese companies are also making advances in this area. Unitree has attracted attention with its fast-moving humanoid robots, while Xpeng has demonstrated its IRON humanoid walking autonomously off a production line after assembly. These developments show how companies are working to make humanoid robots more capable of moving, handling objects, and performing tasks in real-world environments. However, building a robot that can move successfully during a demonstration is only one part of the challenge. Companies must also ensure that their robots can work safely, reliably, and efficiently outside controlled settings. Also read: A war could break out in space within the next: Several countries, including the US and China, are preparing; internet and banking services could be affected

OpenAI could also be working on other AI hardware Humanoid robots aren’t the only hardware products tied to OpenAI’s future plans. The company is also reportedly developing AI-powered devices, including a smart speaker. For now, OpenAI has not shared detailed information about its humanoid robot or confirmed when it might be ready for everyday use.