OpenAI introduced its initial hardware item recently, a stylish compact keypad made to connect with ChatGPT. Created alongside keyboard specialist Work Louder, Micro serves as a handcrafted office curiosity that appeals strongly to tech fans while leaving others somewhat confused.

OpenAI's move into hardware has not been free of controversy. A few weeks back, Apple took legal action against the AI company over alleged intellectual property issues, setting the stage for an extended court dispute. At the same time, reports of another connected home gadget under development at OpenAI have sparked interest, since the device meant to integrate with ChatGPT was apparently created by ex-Apple staff.

While the lawsuit resolves and OpenAI's wider hardware plans take shape, the main item available now is Micro, a distinctive small keypad aimed at pleasing the industry's programming enthusiasts.

TechCrunch received a test unit of Micro from OpenAI. Upon first handling the keypad, its solid build stands out immediately, solid enough to serve as a reliable desk weight if the AI feature does not catch on. Another notable aspect, as others have observed too, is the packaging, a pristine white container with a polished look that echoes certain well-known designs. Interpret that as you see fit.

The keypad features six frosted agent keys across the top for custom tasks in ChatGPT or the Codex coding tool, plus six command keys below to manage those applications. Connection happens via Bluetooth or a USB cable to your computer.

One handy feature is the voice dictation button, letting you speak commands directly so the system handles the work. Simply press and hold the button, speak your request, then tap the nearby send button to submit it.

Customization occurs inside ChatGPT through a dedicated Micro section, where you can tweak key brightness along with the commands and projects assigned to each button.

Experienced coders, the intended users, have shown limited enthusiasm so far. Feedback on Reddit has been mostly critical, with some labeling it more of a joke than a serious tool, and others noting that dedicated programmers will avoid it. An independent review from Aftermath was sharper still, questioning the $230 cost when compared to more affordable options, with the headline calling it an expensive macropad seemingly designed to frustrate.

New users will likely require some adjustment time to understand Micro's operation and potential uses.

After setting up the keypad to my preferences, I discovered it could be quite enjoyable. Assigning different ChatGPT sessions to individual keys makes switching between projects straightforward. Pairing this with the dictation option adds efficiency and makes the process more pleasant overall.

A learning period remains necessary, however. The buttons use color indicators: white for idle agents, blue during processing, green when finished, and red for issues. Users must remember these signals plus the specific projects linked to each key.

The key question is whether Micro provides real advantages over standard laptop controls. Why invest time learning a new system when existing mouse and keyboard skills already suffice?

In the end, your view of Micro hinges on your ChatGPT usage habits. As someone who does not rely on AI daily, I fall outside its core audience.

Even so, if you rely heavily on ChatGPT, have the budget, and appreciate retro-style hardware with tactile buttons, Micro could prove a reasonable choice that adds a bit of daily enjoyment.

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Lucas is a senior writer at TechCrunch, where he covers artificial intelligence, consumer tech, and startups. He previously covered AI and cybersecurity at Gizmodo. You can contact Lucas by emailing lucas.ropek@techcrunch.com.