SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – OpenAI is moving into the realm of humanoid robotics with the goal of integrating artificial intelligence into tangible, physical devices. In an interview on Fortune’s Sources podcast, CEO Sam Altman confirmed the initiative, stating that the company expects to present a convincing demo prototype by 2027. According to Altman, robots functioning on public streets will require additional years to develop, and the company has yet to reveal the final design of the robot or specify the tasks it will undertake.
The primary obstacle identified by Altman is the development of the robot’s core intelligence. This system needs to interpret real-world data, make decisions, and execute tasks with precision. Altman emphasized that physical characteristics like form factor are far less critical than the intelligence controlling the machine. He noted that a humanlike appearance suits environments designed for humans, including doors, keyboards, and equipment. OpenAI also plans to produce robots with different form factors, according to Altman.
To support this effort, the company is actively recruiting experts to develop AI algorithms and motion control systems for robots that engage with the physical environment. According to BigGo Finance, its careers page lists 27 open positions related to robotics, covering roles in motion control, state estimation, actuator control, full-body behavior, and machine learning infrastructure for training embodied AI. Some job listings indicate that the team is working on creating mechatronic actuators internally, while others focus on manufacturing and supply chain logistics for large-scale hardware production.
Creating multi-purpose robots for everyday use
OpenAI’s goal is to develop versatile robots capable of tackling a broad spectrum of tasks. A recent job posting describes a short-term objective of deploying robots that support skilled workers in infrastructure construction. The long-term vision envisions personal robots assisting individuals daily. Altman expressed the belief that everyone should own a personal robot, which will depend on systems capable of understanding their environment and responding swiftly and safely to unforeseen circumstances.
These robotics ambitions expand OpenAI’s scope beyond software and AI infrastructure. The company’s interest in robotics is not new; in 2019, its researchers trained a robotic hand to solve a Rubik’s Cube. Although the robotics team was later disbanded, OpenAI’s startup investments have included humanoid developers such as 1X and Figure AI. In February 2025, Figure ceased its collaboration with OpenAI to focus on its own AI model development.
Rising competition in the field of physical AI
OpenAI faces stiff competition from numerous firms racing to develop humanoid robots. Tesla is working on its Optimus robot, while Figure AI has introduced its Figure 03 model. Chinese automaker XPeng has started manufacturing its IRON humanoid. Nvidia has also expanded its physical AI work with various robotics partners worldwide. Altman’s remarks suggest that OpenAI plans to differentiate itself primarily through the intelligence that powers its hardware systems.
The company has not disclosed what will be featured in its 2027 demonstration or the robot’s final appearance. Details regarding pricing and the timeline for launching these machines remain undisclosed. Altman highlighted that manufacturing capacity and infrastructure are the immediate priorities, and personal robots are not yet a top focus. The ongoing hiring of engineers across the robotics division indicates that broader deployment in homes and public areas will likely take several more years to realize.