San Francisco-based startup Humane (stylized as hu.ma.ne) has unveiled its inaugural product, the Ai Pin, which presents an unconventional solution to a question that hasn’t been widely asked: What if there was a device almost like a smartphone, but without a screen and affixed to your shirt? Oh, and with AI!
The Ai Pin is a distinctive and somewhat whimsical-looking pin designed to be worn on shirts, hoodies, blazers, or any other clothing throughout the day. Its intentional “look at me!” design might be polarizing for those outside Silicon Valley.
Functionally, the Ai Pin features a 13 MP camera capable of taking photos (with video capabilities coming soon), sending texts, and incorporates an AI virtual assistant based on Microsoft and OpenAI technology. Interacting with a peculiar-looking pin in public may become a novel trend.
Equipped with Bluetooth, the Ai Pin offers the option to bypass its “personic speaker,” which “creates a bubble of sound, offering both intimacy and volume as needed.” Users can connect headphones to maintain privacy and avoid unintentionally involving those nearby.
The device facilitates natural speech interaction, and its AI Mic enhances search capabilities, quickly locating and contextualizing information. AI-powered messaging adapts to the user’s tone, while the Catch Me Up function streamlines inbox content.
Collaborating with Tidal, the Ai Pin provides AI-enhanced music experiences, and its AI-powered photographer aids in capturing and recalling significant memories. The device can also serve as a foreign language interpreter and support nutrition goals by identifying food through computer vision.
Running on Cosmos, Humane’s OS tailored for the AI era, the Ai Pin seamlessly integrates intelligent technologies with intuitive interaction and advanced security. By tapping and dragging on its touchpad, users activate the Ai Pin, indicated by a “Trust Light” blinking to signal data collection.
Available in three colors—Eclipse, Equinox, and Lunar—the Ai Pin weighs 34g, with an optional “battery booster” accessory (additional 20g). Boosters, magnetically connected and wirelessly charged, can be hot-swapped. Powered by an undisclosed Snapdragon SoC, the Ai Pin is priced at $699 upfront, inclusive of the device, two battery boosters, and a $24 monthly subscription providing a phone number and T-Mobile data coverage. Pre-orders commence on November 16, with shipments expected early next year.