Humane AI, a startup founded by former Apple executives, has officially disclosed the anticipated shipment date for its inaugural product, the AI Pin. This innovative wearable, set to revolutionize user interactions by offering a screen-free, voice-based interface, is slated to reach customers in March 2024.
The announcement was made on X (previously Twitter), with Humane AI indicating that priority orders will be dispatched first, followed by subsequent orders based on the purchase sequence. While the company did not provide an exact date for shipments, the March timeframe offers a more definitive timeline compared to the earlier ambiguous “early 2024” projection given in November.
Unveiled at an event last month, the AI Pin carries a price tag of $699, accompanied by a $24 monthly subscription for cellular data. The device boasts the capability to project images and information onto the user’s hand, utilizing various AI services to address queries and execute tasks. Demonstrations by the founders emphasized the significance of screen-free interactions, emphasizing touch, voice, or gesture as the primary modes of engagement.
Presented as a secure device, the AI Pin operates on an on-demand activation system rather than continuously listening. It features an embedded privacy chip within its hardware and a trust light indicator. Alongside making phone calls and managing messages, the device showcases additional functionalities such as scanning and memorizing products, food items, and objects through its integrated camera for online purchases.
Humane AI, established in 2019 by Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, former Apple directors, introduced the AI Pin as its inaugural product. The company, marked by a crescent moon logo reminiscent of Apple’s iconic bitten apple, upholds a design philosophy reflecting the sleek and minimalist aesthetics associated with Apple products.
Despite lacking a market presence until now, Humane AI has garnered significant attention and funding, raising over $200 million from investors including Microsoft, Tiger Global, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, according to CNBC.
Imran Chaudhri, speaking at the launch event, stated, “For us, the AI Pin is just the beginning.” Powered by a quad-core Snapdragon processor with a dedicated Qualcomm AI Engine steering its Humane OS software, the AI Pin is available in three color options, with two carrying an additional $100 cost. The device utilizes T-Mobile’s network as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) to provide cellular data.
Upon launch, the AI Pin will incorporate built-in services and experiences rather than traditional apps, featuring collaborations with entities like Tidal, Slack, OpenAI, Google, and more. Humane AI has committed to keeping customers informed about order statuses as the shipments prepare to roll out.
