Weekly Prompt: Humane’s ‘AI Pin’ launch and other stories

Humane unveils wearable 'AI Pin' digital assistant

Humane, a Silicon Valley startup founded by former Apple designers Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, has unveiled its first product, the ‘AI Pin’. Priced at $699, this hands-free, square-shaped wearable aims to replace your smartphone and redefine daily interactions.

The AI Pin functions as a digital personal assistant, allowing users to make calls, send texts, and access information through voice commands. Its innovative laser display system projects text and monochromatic images onto the user's hand to show things like the time, date or what’s nearby without the need for a conventional screen.

Unlike many smart devices, the AI Pin doesn't rely on wake words or continuous recording; it only activates when engaged through voice, touch, gestures, or laser projections. The device operates independently, thanks to a separate data subscription with T-Mobile, eliminating the need for a tethered smartphone.

Powered by Microsoft and OpenAI's advanced AI models and equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, ultrawide camera, and Bluetooth connectivity, the AI Pin offers an array of functions. It can translate spoken conversations in real-time, from Spanish to English and vice versa, and it can access AI services directly from the internet, including playing music and providing information.

Additionally, the device incorporates computer vision features, such as nutritional value assessment by scanning food items. While the AI Pin has generated significant attention, it will need to address some initial challenges, like response time and laser projection readability.

The AI Pin is set to be available in the US from November 16, with backing from notable investors, including Microsoft, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and others.

Sources: CNBC, Reuters, Forbes

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