Humane Ai Pin Launches Campaign to Revolutionize Mobile Technology

Humane Ai Pin Launches Campaign to Revolutionize Mobile Technology 

Humane, the startup founded by former Apple design and engineering duo Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, has made a significant entry into the emerging field of artificial intelligence hardware with the official launch of its long-anticipated Ai Pin.

Designed to magnetically clip onto clothing, the Ai Pin is priced at $699 with a $24-a-month subscription, offering unlimited data and phone calls. Humane has secured partnerships with T-Mobile for phone service and collaborated with Microsoft and OpenAI for AI technology. The device will be available for order starting November 16.

Humane's CEO, Bethany Bongiorno, emphasized the accessibility of their product, stating, "For the technology you are getting, we set a high bar for ourselves in terms of pricing it at a level we think is approachable and accessible." She further noted the company's commitment to continual improvement and cost reduction over time.

The Humane Ai Pin aims to eventually replace smartphones. With its subscription plan featuring a dedicated phone number, the device operates independently without the need to pair with a phone. Boasting a screenless interface, users can interact with it through voice, touch pad, gesture, or by holding up objects. Additionally, the device incorporates a laser projector capable of emitting text onto the user's hand.

Imran Chaudhri, with 20 years of experience at Apple and the lead designer of the iPhone's home screen, and Bethany Bongiorno, a software development leader for various Apple products, have assembled a team of former Apple employees, including CTO Patrick Gates. The device's demonstration at a TED Talk in April and its appearance at Paris Fashion Week in September heightened anticipation for Humane's innovative approach to AI hardware.

Having raised $230 million to date, including a $100 million Series C funding round in March, Humane enjoys backing from prominent supporters such as Microsoft, OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman, and Tiger Global Management. The company's vision, according to Chaudhri and Bongiorno, is reflected in the Ai Pin, representing an integration of AI into daily life without overshadowing humanity.

While Humane leads the charge in AI hardware, other players, such as OpenAI in talks with LoveFrom, indicate a growing excitement in this space. Bongiorno expressed enthusiasm about the interest, emphasizing the positive impact on the industry.