OpenAI to Launch First-Ever Retail Store in Bellevue: Robots, AI Art, and a New “Friend” in Town

This article was originally published on April 1, 2025…on April Fools’ Day! Although not real, this is a concept that might be interesting in the future.

In a move that has both tech enthusiasts and curious shoppers buzzing, OpenAI has announced it will open its first-ever physical retail location—right here in Bellevue.

Unlike your typical store, this futuristic space will be run entirely by robots. Not a single human employee will be on site. The store, set to open later this year, will offer a unique blend of AI-powered experiences and products, making it one of the most innovative retail concepts ever seen at the shopping center.

Following the recent popularity of the new image creation model, the store’s main focus will be on-demand prints of AI-generated art. Customers can walk in, give a prompt to ChatGPT, and receive a custom piece of digital artwork printed right before their eyes. Whether it’s “a cat in space eating gelato” or “a sunset over a futuristic Bellevue skyline,” the only limit is your imagination.

The flagship product debuting at the store is OpenAI’s newest invention: FriendGPT.

Standing at 5 feet tall, FriendGPT is a home companion robot designed to assist with everyday tasks—fetching items, washing dishes, preparing food, and vacuuming floors. What sets it apart? Its personality.

Before activating the robot, customers will answer a series of intake questions to customize their FriendGPT’s persona. Want a witty, sarcastic buddy who reminds you to do your laundry with flair? Or a calm, encouraging friend who gives you morning affirmations and makes your coffee? It’s all possible, thanks to OpenAI’s advanced conversational technology.

While pricing for FriendGPT hasn’t been officially released, insiders suggest the robot will start at over $7,500.

The Bellevue location will be a testing ground for future retail expansions. And while the concept is futuristic, the store aims to make AI feel more approachable and integrated into everyday life.

Of course, the announcement is already drawing attention from local residents and mallgoers alike. “I don’t know what’s more surreal,” said one Bellevue local. “That I can print AI art while shopping… or that my next best friend might be a robot named FriendGPT.”

For more information and updates visit the website to learn more about this one-of-a-kind retail experience in the heart of Bellevue.