Humane, a pioneering hardware startup based in the Bay Area, has unveiled its inaugural product, the AI Pin. Founded in 2017 by former Apple executives Bethany Bongiorno and Imran Chaudhri, the company has secured significant funding totaling $230 million and has steadfastly pursued the development of standalone AI devices.
The AI Pin marks the dawn of a new era for Humane, heralding a series of forthcoming devices designed to leverage the capabilities of advanced generative AI platforms like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. Drawing upon various LLM-based systems, Humane aims to utilize the most suitable platform for each unique task.
Innovative Design and Functionality
While the Humane AI Pin is undeniably a first-generation product with some initial reliability and functionality considerations, its meticulous hardware design reflects the founders’ meticulous attention to detail and technological expertise.
Priced at $699, it embodies Humane’s vision of liberating users from the confines of traditional technology. Serving as a voice-based, always-connected companion, it encourages users disengage from their smartphone screens and engage the world around them.
During a dinner, Bongiorno’s inspiration for the AI Pin stemmed from observing a family consumed by phone use, igniting discussions on tech dependency.
Pioneering a New Era in AI Products
The AI Pin is just the beginning of what promises to be a groundbreaking series of products leveraging genAI. Recent showcases at events shows the growing diversity within the field, amidst broader challenges faced by traditional smartphone markets.
With a starting price of $699, the AI Pin comes bundled with an additional battery and an AI charging case. Customers can choose from various color options starting at $799, with additional accessories priced between $29 and $49. The $24/month subscription provides continual support and updates, with a free three-month trial included with each purchase.
See also: Patlytics Gets Backing From Google’s Gradient Ventures
