Developing hardware is a challenging task, as the saying goes. It’s even more challenging for new startups launching their first-generation products. Humane, a Bay Area startup, has announced a slight delay in the release of their upcoming product, the Ai Pin, pushing it from March to mid-April, as revealed by a recent video featuring Sam Sheffer, Humane’s Head of Media.
In the video, Sheffer mentions that the first units are expected to leave the factory by the end of March. “Priority access” customers will start receiving the product in mid-April, with remaining preorders following shortly after.
Humane gained attention in the tech world even before unveiling their first product, thanks to the founders’ previous experience at Apple and mysterious prelaunch teasers. The Ai Pin, showcased at an event in San Francisco last November, offers a glimpse into the future of consumer hardware, utilizing generative AI for new form factors beyond traditional smartphones.
This trend is expected to continue with the rise of “AI smartphones” incorporating advanced AI models from companies like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. Humane’s product aims to revolutionize consumer device interactions and break away from the smartphone norm that has dominated the market for years.
Image Credits: Humane
With a substantial investment of $230 million, including a recent $100 million Series C funding, Humane’s success with the Ai Pin launch is crucial. The company understands the importance of ensuring the product meets consumer expectations before release, despite facing challenges like recent layoffs and the pressure to maintain consumer and investor confidence.
The Ai Pin is currently available for preorder at $699, with a special offer for early adopters who preorder before March 31, receiving three months of the $24/month subscription service for free.
