The introduction of The Humane AI Pin has stirred some controversy since its recent launch, with many reviews painting a mediocre picture of the device’s performance. Users who have had hands-on experience with the Pin over a few months have highlighted issues such as bugs, delays, and a lack of expected features for a system that touts itself as a personal assistant or, as Humane puts it, your “next mind”.
The emergence of advanced AI technologies like the Rabbit R1 prompts us to ponder the possibility of a future without traditional screens, where devices like the AI Pin could play a central role. Imagine a scenario where individuals are seamlessly connected, resembling cyborgs, dodging intrusive ads while sporting futuristic communication devices and augmented reality glasses.
Despite its premium price tag, the allure of owning a Humane AI Pin lies in the prospect of having a specialized assistant for tasks like messaging or accessing music without the need to constantly reach for your smartphone.
What is the cost of the Humane AI Pin?
Image: Humane
While the initial investment in the AI Pin may seem steep, it’s essential to factor in the ongoing costs associated with data and music services. The base model, Eclipse, is priced at $699 and features a sleek design with a matte black body and a glossy battery booster pack. For those seeking more premium options, the Equinox and Lunar variants come with a chrome frame at a higher price point.
Each AI Pin comes with a charging case resembling Bluetooth headphones and a charging pad similar to a MagSafe charger. Additionally, two battery boosters and a USB-C cable are included, with the option to replace the boosters. However, reviewers have noted subpar battery life, especially with continuous usage throughout the day.
In addition to the device cost, users are required to subscribe to a T-Mobile unlimited data plan priced at \(24 per month, inclusive of cloud storage. This plan provides a personal phone number tied to the AI Pin, with additional charges for international usage. Moreover, access to music services through the Pin necessitates a Tidal account, the exclusive music partner for the device, with subscription fees starting at \)11 per month.
Although the device has been officially launched, non-preorder customers can expect to receive their units starting in May.
How is the Humane AI Pin operated?
Image: Humane
The AI Pin relies on touch, voice commands, and a projection interface for its user interface, eliminating the need for a traditional screen. This approach streamlines interactions but may require some adjustment, particularly for tasks like entering WiFi passwords or navigating system settings.
The device offers various controls, including voice activation by pressing and holding the touchpad after hearing a chime. Additionally, gestures like using two fingers for translation or adjusting volume enhance the user experience. The Pin’s “Laser Ink Display” projects information onto the user’s palm, featuring a 720p display with bold text in green and white. However, outdoor visibility may be challenging due to sunlight interference.
The projection interface includes a home screen with commonly used functions like weather, music, messaging, and calls, each accessible through intuitive gesture controls for enhanced usability.
What can and cannot be accomplished with the AI Pin?
Graphic: Humane
The AI Pin offers a range of functionalities akin to smartphones, albeit with a hands-free approach. Tasks such as texts, calls, note-taking, and media capture are supported, thanks to a 12 MP camera capable of capturing high-resolution images and videos.
However, users expecting a Siri-like experience may be disappointed, as the Pin currently lacks features like time-based reminders, calendar events, or navigation assistance. These functionalities are part of Humane’s future roadmap, with updates expected to roll out over the summer.
Reviewers have highlighted occasional delays in processing requests, with tasks taking up to 10 seconds to complete. Vision capabilities and AI accuracy have also been scrutinized, with instances of misidentification reported by users. Humane is actively working to enhance AI responsiveness and accuracy, with a focus on optimizing on-device processing and cloud integration.
This content was originally featured on Gizmodo.
