Companies
OpenAI's Sam Altman Outlines Ambitious Plans for Humanoid Robots by 2027
OpenAI is embarking on a significant initiative to create humanoid robots capable of performing real-world tasks, as detailed by CEO Sam Altman. This endeavor is structured in two phases: the first phase will focus on general-purpose robots designed to assist skilled workers in infrastructure and construction, while the second phase aims to develop personal robots for everyday consumer use.
This is not OpenAI's first foray into robotics; the company previously developed Dactyl, a robotic hand known for its dexterity, before shifting its focus to language models like ChatGPT. In February 2025, OpenAI began reassembling its robotics capabilities, establishing a new lab in San Francisco that has since quadrupled in size. Plans for a second facility in Richmond, California are also underway, accompanied by an aggressive hiring campaign across various technical fields.
Altman has linked this renewed focus on robotics to advancements in embodied intelligence and simulation technology, marking a significant evolution from earlier efforts. The company is now entering a competitive landscape, with notable players like Tesla advancing their own humanoid projects. Altman has indicated that robots capable of performing useful tasks could be ready by 2027, with a strategic focus on the construction industry due to its defined tasks and labor shortages.
FAQ
What is OpenAI's plan for humanoid robots?
OpenAI plans to create humanoid robots capable of performing real-world tasks, focusing initially on general-purpose robots for infrastructure and construction, followed by personal robots for everyday consumer use.
What phases are involved in OpenAI's robotics initiative?
The initiative is structured in two phases: the first phase focuses on assisting skilled workers in infrastructure and construction, while the second phase aims to develop personal robots for consumer use.
What advancements have prompted OpenAI to return to robotics?
OpenAI's renewed focus on robotics is linked to advancements in embodied intelligence and simulation technology, marking a significant evolution from their earlier robotics efforts.
When does OpenAI expect to have robots ready for practical use?
Sam Altman has indicated that robots capable of performing useful tasks could be ready by 2027.
How is OpenAI expanding its robotics capabilities?
OpenAI is expanding its robotics capabilities by establishing a new lab in San Francisco, planning a second facility in Richmond, California, and conducting an aggressive hiring campaign across various technical fields.