Openai's Altman details humanoid robot development and long-term vision

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, confirmed in a podcast that the company is advancing robot development, focusing on both humanoid robots and specialized robots for data center environments. Altman emphasized that while humanoid robots are being developed, non-anthropomorphic robots will also be created for specific scenarios where a human-like form is not necessary. He highlighted that the 'robot brain' is more critical than the physical form, noting that human society is built around human characteristics, making humanoid robots practically meaningful. OpenAI recently released GPT-6 Astra, described as the most intelligent and aligned model, which is seen as a key foundation for robot deployment. OpenAI has already integrated its models with Figure AI's Figure 01 robot and established OpenAI Robotics, led by Aditya Ramesh, in May 2026. The division focuses on hardware research and machine learning, with job listings showing an increase in robot-related positions in San Francisco. Hardware actuators are a key hiring focus, including actuator design and testing infrastructure. Altman stated that home robots are not an immediate priority, with infrastructure and manufacturing being the main focus, though he expressed long-term confidence in the consumer market, stating, 'One day, I think everyone should have a personal robot.' OpenAI has not disclosed shipping dates or production targets for its robots.