Humane AI raised more than $230 million before it even shipped a product. However, upon the release of its Ai Pin – priced at $699 plus a $24 monthly subscription – most tech reviewers were disappointed to find that this much-hyped product, aiming to challenge the dominance of smartphones, fell short of expectations.
Amidst the critiques, a spotlight was put on Marques Brownlee, known as MKBHD, whose review may have a significant impact on the company’s future. Despite his video titled “The Worst Product I’ve Ever Reviewed… For Now” sparking controversy, the content of his review echoed sentiments shared by other reviewers: the pin suffered from poor battery life, wearability issues, frequent errors, inefficient outdoor screen projection, and an unjustifiably high price point compared to Android phones.
As the discussion escalated on social media, some questioned the responsibility that comes with Brownlee’s large following, while others defended his right to give an honest critique of the product.
In the video, Brownlee candidly shared his thoughts on the product, leading to a divide in opinions regarding the impact of his review on Humane AI.
Critics of MKBHD’s review fail to acknowledge that Humane AI is not a fledgling startup but a well-funded company with notable investors. This scrutiny of Brownlee’s influence is not unique, as he has previously faced backlash for his reviews, including a case where a car company faced challenges following his negative critique.
Despite the attention and critiques directed at Brownlee, some within the Black tech community perceive a bias against him, questioning whether his race plays a role in the intense scrutiny of his reviews. The differing standards applied to Brownlee’s reviews compared to those of his white counterparts raise concerns about bias in the tech industry.
An Evolving Creator Landscape
In a changing media landscape, individual creators like Brownlee have gained significant influence, challenging traditional tech media outlets. Brownlee’s ability to shape opinions demonstrates the power of independent voices in today’s digital age.
