TLDR:
AI hardware products like the Humane AI Pin, Rabbit R1, and The Frame are set to launch in the next couple of months, offering unique ways to interact with AI through dedicated devices. The Humane AI Pin uses a camera and microphone to answer questions, the Rabbit R1 relies on large action models for advanced tasks, and The Frame integrates AI into smart glasses for a heads-up display experience. However, the usefulness of these devices beyond smartphones is questioned, with pricing and functionality being key factors to consider.
Will AI hardware prove to be anything more than novelty?
The past year has seen an explosion of AI tools and software, but over the next couple of months, we’re also going to be seeing a lot more AI hardware. Personally, though, I’m just wondering if any of it will become anything more than novelty. AI isn’t something that typically requires dedicated hardware. Some of the most useful ways to take advantage of generative AI is simply with an app or website on your smartphone. But that’s just based on what we’ve seen so far. Looking past that, companies that are creating their own AI products have more possibilities since they can build more advanced experiences than they can on existing smartphone operating systems. In the next couple of months, we’re looking forward to the launch of three of those AI hardware products.
The Humane AI Pin
The Humane AI Pin uses a camera and microphone to observe and answer questions using AI services and its own Android-based platform. It also features a laser projector to recognize movement and gestures for interaction. Despite initial skepticism, the hardware impressed with useful responses generated by a multimodal AI.
The Rabbit R1
The Rabbit R1 is a compact device with a display, camera, and mics and speakers, offering similar functionalities as the AI Pin with a focus on “LAMs” for advanced tasks like booking rideshares. The product’s potential is yet to be fully unveiled.
The Frame by Brilliant Labs
The Frame is a pair of smart glasses integrating AI into a heads-up display, offering a seamless way to interact with AI through questions and camera feedback. While functionality seems promising, the long-term usefulness of these devices remains to be seen.
Overall, the AI hardware products set to launch aim to offer unique ways to interact with AI, but questions remain about their functionality, pricing, and long-term usefulness beyond smartphones.