Tech Beetle briefing IN AI

OpenAI enters hardware market with Codex Micro: What is it and how much it costs

Essential brief

OpenAI has released its first hardware product, the Codex Micro, designed specifically for users of its Codex coding platform. This compact, customizable controller features mechanical keys, a joys

Key topics

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Key facts

OpenAI's Codex Micro is its first hardware product, designed for Codex platform users.

The device features 13 mechanical keys, a joystick, a dial, and customizable controls via the ChatGPT desktop app.

Priced at $230, the Codex Micro is available through Supply Co with limited stock.

The product is distinct from OpenAI's separate AI device project with Jony Ive, which is still in development.

Highlights

Codex Micro is a compact controller with mechanical keys and input controls for managing AI coding tasks.

It provides live status updates on Codex threads using colored keys.

The joystick and dial enable workflow initiation and AI reasoning adjustments.

OpenAI partnered with Work Louder to create the device, resembling the Creator Micro 2 keyboard.

The Codex Micro is priced at $230 and sold through Supply Co while supplies last.

Why it matters

OpenAI's launch of the Codex Micro signifies the company's first foray into hardware, targeting developers who use its AI coding platform. This move highlights OpenAI's intent to enhance user interaction with AI tools through dedicated devices, potentially improving productivity and workflow management. It also distinguishes this product from OpenAI's broader AI hardware ambitions, indicating a phased approach to hardware development.

OpenAI has introduced its first hardware product, the Codex Micro, aimed at users of its Codex coding platform rather than the AI device it is developing with former Apple designer Jony Ive. The Codex Micro is a small, keyboard-like controller created in partnership with keyboard manufacturer Work Louder. It is designed to help users manage and monitor their Codex AI agents more effectively.

The device is a compact, square-shaped pad featuring 13 mechanical keys, a joystick, a dial, and a touch sensor. It closely resembles Work Louder's Creator Micro 2 keyboard. OpenAI states that all controls on the Codex Micro can be customized through the ChatGPT desktop application.

Priced at $230, the Codex Micro will be sold through Supply Co while supplies last, though OpenAI has not disclosed the total number of units available. The device includes six frosted keys that provide a live view of Codex threads, using different colors to indicate task statuses such as complete, running, needing feedback, or error.

In addition to status updates, the keyboard offers command keys assignable to common actions like push-to-talk, accepting or rejecting changes, and sending commands. Buyers receive 32 extra keycaps featuring Codex icons. The joystick can initiate common workflows, and the dial adjusts the AI's reasoning level.

This product is separate from OpenAI's larger hardware project with Jony Ive, which is expected to be an AI-focused device enabling voice interaction with ChatGPT. That device remains under development and may launch next year. The Codex Micro represents OpenAI's initial step into hardware tailored for developers using its AI coding tools.

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