OpenAI finally launches hardware… for Codex — SkimNews
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- OpenAI launched Codex Micro, a square-shaped block of buttons co-developed with keyboard maker Work Louder, priced at $230 and sold as a limited-run collaboration through Supply Co with unit quantities undisclosed.
- The Codex Micro hardware closely mirrors Work Louder's Creator Micro 2 design, featuring an array of 13 mechanical switches alongside a joystick, dial, and touch sensor, plus 32 additional Codex-themed keycaps.
- Work Louder cofounder Mike Di Genova demonstrated that six frosted keys show a live view of Codex threads using color-coded task status (complete, running, needs feedback, or errored), while command keys trigger push-to-talk, accept/reject, and send actions.
- Codex Micro is separate from OpenAI's flagship hardware project with former Apple designer Jony Ive, which reports describe as a ChatGPT-enabled smart speaker rumored to launch next year.
- Apple filed a lawsuit this week accusing OpenAI of stealing hardware secrets — allegations OpenAI calls meritless — putting renewed scrutiny on the Ive collaboration.
Why it matters: OpenAI is shipping physical hardware for the first time, but at $230 for an unspecified limited run aimed at Codex users, this is a developer-facing experiment rather than a mass-market launch. The Ive-designed smart speaker remains OpenAI's main consumer hardware bet, and Apple's trade-secrets suit now adds legal exposure to that flagship project.
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