### Post-Launch Update: Current Status of the Humane AI Pin

The Humane AI Pin could potentially go down in history as one of the most poorly received product launches in recent technological history, if not the absolute worst. Founded by ex-Apple executives and engineers, Humane initially unveiled its screenless smart device powered by generative AI back in 2023, creating a significant buzz that even saw runway models sporting the gadget at Paris Fashion Week.

However, once consumers got their hands on the product, the feedback resembled the infamous flop of Google’s Nexus Q.

In our own assessment, David Pierce bluntly stated, “No one should buy it,” while Marques Brownlee labeled it as the “most disappointing product I’ve ever reviewed.” Engadget dismissed it as “a solution in search of a problem,” and The Washington Post characterized it as “a promising disaster that serves no real purpose.” Issues like cooling malfunctions, performance overheads, and a slew of missing features plague this \(699 device, coupled with a \)24 monthly membership fee.

Despite Humane AI’s assurances of future improvements, the company’s decision to lay off 4% of its workforce shortly before the product launch raises questions about its longevity and viability. Will it ever redeem itself? Only time will tell as we closely monitor the developments post-launch.

“If you thought David Pierce’s critique was scathing, just wait until you see Marques Brownlee’s scathing review. Ouch.”

At a hefty price tag of \(700, the much-hyped Humane AI Pin has left us with more questions than answers. In this Vergecast episode, we delve deep into our evaluation of this AI-powered device, pondering its future in the tech landscape. The challenge lies in integrating new technologies on top of each other seamlessly, as any imperfections in this integration hinder the overall functionality. And did we mention the exorbitant price tag of \)700?

“I attempted to communicate with the Humane AI Pin in Japanese to inquire about its lunch plans.

I also tried to get the pin to translate song lyrics into Korean and Japanese. I emphasize the word ‘tried.’

For the record, my phone’s Google Translate app had no issues.”

The Humane AI Pin is essentially a screenless smartphone in the form of a wearable gadget. It abstracts traditional smartphone functions behind an AI assistant and an operating system named CosmOS, eliminating the need for app navigation or keyboard typing. Whether you need to make a call, send a text, perform calculations, jot down notes, or seek information, simply interact with the AI Pin. Powered by a network of AI models, it aims to respond to queries and execute commands using only a cellular connection (albeit with a separate number). It’s not just an app; it’s an all-encompassing solution.

Over the past year, Humane has argued that the AI Pin marks the dawn of a post-smartphone era, envisioning a future where we are less glued to screens and more engaged in the real world. The implications of this shift, our willingness to embrace it, and the broader questions surrounding our evolving relationship with technology remain at the core of this debate.

After numerous demonstrations and teasers hinting at the AI-driven future of tech gadgets, Humane has finally unleashed the AI Pin to the public. Priced at \(699, the wearable device comprises a square unit and a detachable battery pack that magnetically attaches to clothing or other surfaces. Additionally, users are required to pay a \)24 monthly subscription fee for access to a phone number and data coverage via T-Mobile’s network. Preorders are slated to commence on November 16th, as confirmed by the company in a statement to Wired.