Last April, Humane launched its AI Pin, a $700 wearable device with the huge ambition to revolutionize the use of mobile technologies. Presented as a small gadget capable of recognizing objects and responding to voice commands using a laser interface projected onto the palm of the hand, the badge promised an unprecedented futuristic experience.
Big ambition, big flop
Unfortunately, Humane ate the wall of reality. Critics were quick to point out the device’s many shortcomings: slow response, hard-to-see laser projections in direct sunlight, frequent recognition errors and a tendency to overheat. Users also noted that battery life was poor, a problematic limitation for a device meant to be worn all day.
The AI Pin was expected to be a major breakthrough in wearable technology, with Humane even promising to do better than traditional smartphones. We had to face the facts: the badge does not provide a significant improvement compared to smartphones, while being more expensive and less practical.
These technical failures tarnished Humane’s reputation and dampened the enthusiasm surrounding the AI Pin. Despite the company’s promises to improve the device with updates, the product failed to convince anyone.
Founded by Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, former Apple employees, Humane had raised high hopes. The founders raised $230 million from prestigious investors, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Before the launch of AI Pin, the company was valued at $850 million. Now with his back against the wall, Humane is considering selling the company. According to anonymous sources cited by Bloombergthe young shooter is trying to sell for an amount between 750 million and 1 billion dollars.
If a buyer is found, they will not only have to solve the technical problems of the AI Pin, but also redefine the value of the device to convince a skeptical market.
This move by Humane comes at a time when other companies are accelerating in the field of AI-based devices. Meta launched Ray-Ban connected glasses, while Rabbit sells its own AI assistant, the Rabbit R1, which also received very negative reviews. This competition adds additional pressure on Humane to find a buyer able to relaunch its product.
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