In a world dominated by smartphones, Humane, a company with a vision for a post-smartphone era, has been generating considerable buzz with its upcoming product, the AI Pin. While the device is scheduled to launch soon, an exclusive glimpse into the device’s details raises questions about its functionality and the need for such an innovation.
The AI Pin, priced at $699, is a square-shaped wearable device that attaches to clothing or surfaces magnetically. The unique feature of this clip is that it doubles as a battery pack, ensuring uninterrupted usage with two included “battery boosters.” This innovation allows users to swap batteries throughout the day, although the exact battery life remains undisclosed.
Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, the AI Pin employs camera, depth, and motion sensors to capture and record its surroundings. It also includes a built-in “personal speaker” and Bluetooth headphone compatibility for audio interactions. Notably, it lacks a screen, which has led Humane to explore alternative methods of interaction.
The primary mode of interaction with the AI Pin is voice-based, supported by a green laser projector capable of displaying information on the user’s hand. Gesture controls are also possible, thanks to a touchpad integrated into the device. Unlike some voice-activated devices, the AI Pin is not always recording or listening for a wake word; instead, it requires manual activation, indicated by a “Trust Light” that illuminates when the device is recording.
One distinctive aspect of the AI Pin is its standalone nature. It is not designed as a smartphone accessory but rather as a comprehensive device that serves as a standalone communication and information hub. The $24 monthly subscription, known as the “Humane Subscription,” covers a phone number and cell data through Humane’s wireless service running on T-Mobile’s network. This subscription also provides cloud storage for photos and videos and offers unlimited queries to AI models, though the specific AI models involved remain unspecified.
The AI Pin’s operating system, named “Cosmos,” represents a shift away from the app-centric approach, instead presenting a seamless system that can access various AI tools and features as needed. This concept is reminiscent of ChatGPT’s plugin system, enabling the attachment of new features or data to enhance user experiences. There are indications that the AI Pin may be powered by GPT-4, promising advanced capabilities.
The leaked documents hint at several intriguing features, including the AI Pin’s ability to compose messages in the user’s style and summarize email inboxes. It can also translate languages and identify food to provide nutritional information. The device supports Tidal music streaming, offering an “AI DJ” that selects music based on the user’s context. Additionally, it promises AI-centric photography features, although the specifics are not yet clear.
To manage the AI Pin, Humane offers “Humane.center,” a tool for setting up and customizing the device. However, details regarding whether this is a website or a mobile app are scarce.
As Humane prepares for the official launch of the AI Pin, the tech world is left with several questions. Will this innovative device truly redefine the way we interact with technology, or is it merely a novelty in a world dominated by smartphones with screens? Time will tell whether the AI Pin lives up to the hype and manages to carve out a unique niche in the tech landscape.
