SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – OpenAI is preparing to develop humanoid robots, expanding its artificial intelligence applications from digital screens to tangible, physical devices. CEO Sam Altman announced this initiative during Fortune’s Sources podcast, where he told host Alyson Shontell that the company plans to produce such robots. Altman mentioned that a compelling prototype demonstration should be ready by 2027. However, broader deployment on public streets remains several years away. The company has not yet revealed the final design or specific tasks for the robot.
Altman emphasized that the most challenging aspect is the robot’s brain rather than its physical form. The AI must interpret real-world data, make decisions, and perform tasks accurately. The OpenAI CEO explained that the robot’s shape is far less critical than the system controlling it. A humanlike appearance works well because doors, keyboards, and other equipment are designed for humans. Altman also stated that OpenAI will develop humanoid robots along with other form factors.
To support this development, OpenAI is hiring specialists in AI systems and motion control to enhance how its robots interact with their environment. BigGo Finance identified 27 open robotics roles listed on the company’s careers page. These roles cover areas such as state estimation, actuator control, full-body movement, and machine learning infrastructure for embodied AI. Job postings reveal teams designing mechatronic actuators that incorporate motors, transmissions, sensors, and thermal management. Additional listings involve manufacturing and supply chain work aimed at scaling production.
From infrastructure construction to personal assistance robots
OpenAI aims to create versatile robots capable of a wide array of functions. One early job posting indicates a focus on helping skilled workers build infrastructure. Over the long term, the company envisions personal robots that can assist individuals at home and in daily routines. Altman stated that everyone should have a personal robot, though the priority remains on ramping up manufacturing capacity. Such machines will need to understand their surroundings and handle unexpected situations efficiently and safely.
Robotics represents a return to an area OpenAI explored in the past. In 2019, its researchers taught a robotic hand to solve a Rubik’s Cube. The company later disbanded that team and shifted focus to language models. Its startup fund has backed humanoid robot companies like 1X and Figure AI. However, Figure ended its partnership with OpenAI in February 2025. Additionally, OpenAI has established a formal process for reporting AI misalignment issues as its systems become more capable.
The Competitive Race in Building Physical Artificial Intelligence Accelerates
OpenAI is joining an expanding field of companies developing humanoid robots. Tesla is working on its Optimus robot, while Figure AI has launched Figure 03. Chinese automaker XPeng has begun manufacturing its IRON humanoid. Firms like Samsung and BYD are also pursuing humanoid development, according to Ubergizmo. Nvidia has expanded its physical AI efforts with robotics partners worldwide. Altman’s remarks suggest that OpenAI intends to compete primarily through advancing the intelligence systems that control the hardware.
Details about the 2027 demonstration remain undisclosed. OpenAI has not revealed pricing, launch dates, or what the robot will look like. Initial models are expected to focus on industrial infrastructure and construction tasks, according to Ubergizmo. Altman noted that building manufacturing capacity and infrastructure is prioritized before releasing personal robots for consumers. The company continues to recruit for its robotics team, and widespread adoption in homes and public areas is likely several more years away.