On November 9, Humane revealed its first device, the AI Pin, after showcasing demos and hints about the future of AI-powered gadgets for months.
The device, priced at $699, consists of two parts: a square device and a magnetically attachable battery pack for your clothes or surfaces. Along with this cost, there’s a $24 monthly fee for a Humane subscription. Providing a phone number and data coverage through T-Mobile’s network.
AI Pin by Humane: Wearable Tech Redefined
According to Wired, the company shared that the AI Pin will begin shipping in early 2024. With preorders starting on November 16th. The AI Pin is equipped with a Snapdragon processor (the specific type is unclear). And you can control it using voice commands, a camera, gestures, and a small built-in projector. The Pin itself weighs approximately 34 grams. And the additional “battery booster” adds 20 more grams. The built-in camera captures 13-megapixel photos and, after a software update, will record videos.
Unlike devices like the Rewind Pendant, the AI Pin is not designed for constant recording or listening for wake words. You need to activate the device manually by tapping and dragging on the touchpad. And the Pin’s “Trust Light” blinks to indicate that it’s collecting data.
The primary function of the Pin is to connect to AI models through the company’s AI Mic software. The press release mentions collaborations with Microsoft and OpenAI, with previous reports suggesting GPT-4 powers the Pin. However, Humane states that ChatGPT access is a core feature of the device.
The operating system, called Cosmos, is designed to automatically route your queries to the appropriate tools, eliminating the need for manual app downloads and management.
Simple, Seamless Tech Interaction
Humane aims to simplify your technology experience with the Pin by removing unnecessary interface complexities. The device won’t have a homescreen or numerous settings and accounts to manage. The concept is that you can interact with the Pin through speech or touch. Express what you want to do or know, and it will automatically respond.
Over the past year, we’ve witnessed a substantial amount of functionality accessible through simple text commands to chatbots. Humane strives to create a gadget with a similar user-friendly approach.
The key question is the Pin’s actual capabilities. In its recent announcement, Humane highlighted features demonstrated by co-founder Imran Chaudhri during a TED demo earlier this year. These include voice-based messaging and calling, a “catch me up” function summarizing your email inbox, obtaining nutritional information by showing food to the camera, and real-time translation.
Wearable Search Engine and Beyond
Beyond these, the device appears to function primarily as a wearable search engine powered by large language models. Wired reports that Humane intends to incorporate navigation and shopping features and plans to provide developers with tools to create their own applications.
Humane sees the AI Pin as the initial phase of a broader project. The device is expected to improve as the underlying models advance. Aligning with the broader tech industry’s ongoing efforts to explore new possibilities with AI.
Humane envisions a development similar to the smartphone. Where enhanced hardware gradually enhances the user experience. But the true revolution stems from the expanded capabilities of the device. While there is much work ahead in this regard, Humane appears prepared to embark on this journey.
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