AI in My Pocket: Humane officially launches AI-powered wearable pin, aims to replace smartphones

After months of anticipation and teases about the future of AI-driven gadgets, Humane has officially introduced its inaugural device, the AI Pin. Humane is a five-year-old artificial intelligence startup founded by former Apple designers Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno.

This innovative wearable, priced at $699, comprises two components: a square device and a magnetic battery pack that can be attached to clothing or various surfaces.

Additionally, users are required to subscribe to Humane’s service at a cost of $24 per month, providing them with a phone number and data coverage. Preorders for the AI Pin are set to start on November 16, with shipping expected to start in early 2024.

The AI Pin is equipped with a Snapdragon processor, although the specific model remains undisclosed. It is operated through a combination of voice commands, a camera, gestures, and a small built-in projector. Weighing approximately 34 grams, the Pin includes a 13MP camera that can capture both photos and videos following a software update.

The AI Pin is not designed for continuous recording or constant voice recognition. Users must manually activate the device by tapping and swiping on the touchpad, and a “Trust Light” indicator blinks to signal that data collection is underway.

The primary function of the AI Pin is to connect to AI models through the company’s proprietary software, known as AI Mic. Humane has mentioned collaborations with both Microsoft and OpenAI, and the device prominently features ChatGPT access. Its operating system, named Cosmos, is designed to seamlessly route user queries to the appropriate tools without the need for extensive app management.

Humane’s objective with the AI Pin is to simplify the interface and streamline interactions with technology. This device eschews the traditional home screen and complex settings, aiming to create an experience where users can interact with the pin through touch or voice, making requests that are executed automatically.

While Humane has showcased several features during the device’s unveiling, such as voice-based messaging, calling, email summary, nutritional information retrieval via camera, and real-time translation, its core purpose is to function as a wearable AI-powered search engine.

The company also plans to integrate navigation and shopping capabilities and is exploring opportunities for developers to create additional tools.

Humane envisions the AI Pin as the initial step in a broader project. The device’s capabilities are expected to expand as AI models evolve, and the company is prepared to contribute to the ongoing innovation in the tech industry, aiming for a transformation similar to the evolution of smartphones—where hardware improvements enhance the user experience, but the true revolution stems from the possibilities enabled by the device. There is still considerable work ahead, but Humane is eager to embark on this journey.

(With input from agencies)