Why ChatGPT-maker Sam Altman thinks that AI needs devices and hardware beyond smartphones and PCs

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has shared his views on why the current hardware ecosystem of smartphones and computers is not suitable for the future of artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath’s “People by WTF” podcast, Altman argued that AI requires devices capable of offering constant presence and contextual awareness—something existing gadgets do not provide.

Smartphones are not always-present companions

Altman pointed out that the form factor of a phone, whether kept in the pocket or used in the hand, limits AI’s ability to function as a true daily companion. “The current form factors of computers are, I think, not quite right for that. They do have this either on or off binary that I think isn’t quite what we want for like a… the sort of sci-fi dream of the AI companion,” he explained.

He further said that advanced AI needs to go beyond reactive responses and must become proactive in assisting users. “You really want AI to have as much context as possible, do stuff for you, and be proactive,” Altman noted, highlighting how existing hardware prevents AI from fulfilling this role effectively.