SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – OpenAI is preparing to develop humanoid robots, expanding its artificial intelligence applications from digital interfaces into tangible, physical entities. CEO Sam Altman announced this initiative on Fortune’s Sources podcast, informing host Alyson Shontell that the company plans to produce such robots. Altman projected that an engaging prototype could be ready for demonstration by 2027, although broader deployment on public streets remains several years away. The company has not disclosed the final design or specific functions intended for the robot.
Altman emphasized that the primary challenge lies in the robot’s brain, not its physical form. The AI must interpret real-world conditions, make decisions, and execute tasks accurately. He noted that the robot’s shape is less critical than the underlying system controlling it. A humanlike design is advantageous because doors, keyboards, and other everyday tools are designed with human use in mind. Altman confirmed that OpenAI intends to develop humanoid robots as well as alternative form factors.
The company is recruiting experts in AI systems and motion control to enhance its robots’ interaction with their environment. BigGo Finance identified 27 open positions related to robotics on OpenAI’s careers page, covering areas such as state estimation, actuator control, full-body behavior, and the infrastructure of machine learning for embodied AI. Job listings include roles designing mechatronic actuators that integrate motors, transmissions, sensors, and thermal management, along with manufacturing and supply chain roles aimed at scaled production.
From Construction Assistance to Personal Aides
OpenAI aims to create versatile robots capable of performing a wide array of tasks. One job listing indicates an initial focus on aiding skilled workers in infrastructure development. Looking further ahead, the company envisions personal robots that support individuals at home and in everyday life. Altman expressed the belief that everyone should have their own personal robot, although the priority remains on increasing manufacturing capacity. These machines will need to understand their surroundings and adapt to unexpected events safely and efficiently.
This venture marks a return to robotics for OpenAI, an area they explored years ago. In 2019, researchers trained a robotic hand to solve a Rubik’s Cube. That team was later disbanded as the company shifted focus to language models. Subsequently, OpenAI’s startup fund backed humanoid robot developers 1X and Figure AI. However, the partnership with Figure AI ended in February 2025. The organization has also established a formal process for reporting AI misalignment issues as its systems become more capable.
Increasing Competition in the Development of Physical AI
OpenAI joins an expanding roster of companies working on humanoid robots. Tesla is advancing its Optimus robot, and Figure AI has unveiled Figure 03. Chinese automaker XPeng has begun production of its IRON humanoid, while Samsung and BYD are also pursuing similar projects, according to Ubergizmo. Nvidia has expanded its physical AI efforts through collaborations with robotics partners worldwide. Altman’s remarks imply that OpenAI’s focus will be on the intelligence layer that directs the hardware, positioning the company to compete in this emerging sector.
Specific details about the 2027 demonstration, including pricing, launch timelines, or the robot’s appearance, have not been disclosed. Initial models are expected to serve industrial infrastructure and construction needs, according to Ubergizmo. Altman stated that manufacturing capacity and infrastructure development will come before mass-market personal robots. The company continues to recruit for its robotics division, with widespread deployment in homes and public environments anticipated to take several more years.