SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – OpenAI is preparing to develop humanoid robots, extending its artificial intelligence capabilities from screens into tangible, physical forms. During Fortune’s Sources podcast, CEO Sam Altman confirmed this initiative, informing host Alyson Shontell that the company intends to produce such robots. He mentioned that an impressive prototype is expected to be ready by 2027, although wider deployment on public streets remains several years away. The company has yet to disclose the final design or specific functions envisioned for the robots.
Altman emphasized that the most challenging aspect is not the robot’s body but its brain. The AI must interpret real-world data, make decisions, and accomplish tasks accurately. He pointed out that the robot’s physical appearance is less critical than the system controlling it. A humanlike form is practical because doors, keyboards, and other tools are designed for human use. Altman also indicated that OpenAI plans to develop robots in various shapes beyond humanoid designs.
To support this effort, OpenAI is recruiting experts in AI systems and motion control to enhance robot-environment interactions. According to BigGo Finance, the company’s careers page lists 27 open positions in robotics. These roles include state estimation, actuator control, comprehensive-body behavior, and machine learning infrastructure for embodied AI. Job postings also reveal teams working on mechatronic actuators integrating motors, transmissions, sensors, and thermal management. Additional openings cover manufacturing and supply chain management for scaling production.
From construction work to personal assistance
The overarching goal is to create versatile robots capable of performing a broad spectrum of tasks. One job listing indicates a focus on aiding skilled workers in infrastructure development. In the long run, OpenAI envisions personal robots that can assist individuals at home and in everyday activities. Altman stated that everyone should have a personal robot, although the priority remains on expanding production capacity. Such robots will need to comprehend their environment and respond to unexpected situations efficiently and safely.
This move into robotics marks a return to a field OpenAI explored in previous years. In 2019, researchers trained a robotic hand to solve a Rubik’s Cube. Subsequently, the company disbanded that team, shifting focus toward language models. Its startup fund then backed humanoid robot developers 1X and Figure AI. The partnership with Figure AI ended in February 2025. Additionally, OpenAI has established a formal process for reporting AI misalignment as its systems become more capable.
Increasing competition in physical AI development
OpenAI is joining an expanding list of organizations creating humanoid robots. Tesla is developing its Optimus robot, while Figure AI has unveiled Figure 03. Chinese automaker XPeng has begun manufacturing its IRON humanoid. Companies like Samsung and BYD are also pursuing humanoid projects, according to Ubergizmo. Nvidia has expanded its physical AI initiatives with global robotics collaborators. Altman’s remarks suggest that OpenAI aims to compete by emphasizing the intelligence layer that directs the hardware, rather than solely focusing on physical design.
Details regarding the 2027 demonstration remain undisclosed. OpenAI has not revealed information about the robot’s appearance, pricing, or launch timeline. Initial units are expected to target industrial infrastructure and construction applications, as reported by Ubergizmo. Altman noted that manufacturing capacity and infrastructure development take precedence over personal robots for consumers. The company continues recruiting for its robotics division, and broad deployment in homes and public spaces is anticipated to take several additional years.