We all know the feeling. You reach for your phone “just to check something quick,” and next thing you know, an hour has vanished in a scroll-hole of social media and news feeds. In this blog, let’s talk about the Humane AI Pin, a brand-new wearable aiming to be the antidote to our smartphone addiction. But is it a revolutionary step forward or just a clunky gimmick?

What is Humane AI Pin?

The Humane AI Pin is a new wearable device that aims to be a more mindful alternative to smartphones. Also, it clips onto your clothes and uses a combination of voice commands, touch gestures, and a laser projection system to allow you to interact with an AI assistant.

Image Source: https://humane.com/shop

As your assistant and second brain, AI Pin helps you be present and in the moment whether you’re chatting, messaging, searching for information, taking notes, or managing your online activities.

How does it work?

Unlike a smartphone with its convenient wake word activation, the Humane AI Pin requires a more hands-on approach. Most interactions begin with a simple tap on the device’s surface. For calls and texts, you’ll tap and speak your contact or message.

This tap-happy approach can become your biggest frustration. Unlike the phone, where voice assistants are readily available, the Pin requires constant physical interaction. Need to make a call? Tap, talk(keep your finger pressed the entire time you’re talking). Want to ask a question? Tap, talk (keep your finger pressed the entire time you’re talking), wait for the response. It seemed cumbersome and broke the flow of conversation.

Battery Blues

Keep in mind that the Pin has a learning curve, battery life might be an issue for heavy users. For a more in-depth guide, consult the user manual or the manufacturer’s website.

According to Chris Velazco in his article “I’ve been living with a $699 AI Pin on my chest. You probably shouldn’t.” in The Washington Post, he says that “the Pin starts to overheat pretty quickly when you’re making back-to-back requests or using the Pin’s projector for too long and when that happens, don’t be surprised when the Pin cuts off contact for a while as it cools off.” This had happened to him four or five times in two weeks

Features

Despite these issues, the Pin does offer some genuinely exciting features. AI pin can be your interpreter, researcher, photographer, communicator, and more, freeing up your hands and mind in process of answering queries and doing daily activities.

Image source: https://humane.com/

The real-time language translator is a game-changer. No more fumbling with translation apps or awkward charades!

Another noteworthy feature is Vision.

Imagine pointing the Pin at something and say “Look at this and tell me what it is” or “What am I looking at?” you can instantly gain access to detailed information.

Vision feels like something ripped from a science fiction movie, and it’s undeniably cool.

A Learning Curve Worth Climbing?

The Humane AI Pin is undoubtedly a work in progress. However, the potential is undeniable. The seamless translation, the glimpse into an augmented reality future with Vision, and the overall sleek design all hint at a future where AI assistants become a more natural extension of ourselves.

Is it a Smartphone Killer?

Not quite yet. Just like what Chris Velazco said in his article in The Washington Post “It’s not meant to replace your phone, but Humane thinks you could live a little more in the moment when you’re asking an AI to answer questions and text people instead of staring at a screen again.”

For now, the Pin feels more like a high-tech accessory than a true phone replacement. The lack of a “wake word,” the reliance on constant tapping, and the limited functionality make it a tough sell for someone completely reliant on their smartphone.

Love it or Leave it?

That depends on what you’re looking for in a tech companion.

Love it if:

You crave novelty and cutting-edge tech. The Pin offers features like seamless translation and a glimpse into AR that feel futuristic.
You hate screen time addiction. The Pin aims to keep you connected without the constant pull of a smartphone screen.
Translation is a must-have. The real-time translator is a game-changer, breaking down language barriers with ease.

Leave it if:

You value seamless user experience. The Pin requires constant tapping and lacks a wake word, making it less intuitive than smartphones.
Battery life is a concern. Heavy users might find themselves needing to charge the Pin frequently.
You can’t live without your current apps and features. The Pin lacks functionalities like time-based reminders, calendar syncing, and popular music services.

A Work in Progress: The Importance of Repair Training

The Humane AI Pin is undeniably innovative, but like any new technology, it’s bound to experience glitches, require future improvements, and have issues that need repair. This is where companies like CellBotics, which specializes in cell phone and computer repair training, play a crucial role.

Our programs equip technicians with the skills to diagnose and fix these emerging technologies, ensuring a smooth user experience for early adopters. Also, as the Pin evolves and becomes more widespread, a skilled repair workforce will be essential to maintain its functionality and user satisfaction.

Thank you for reading my blog,

Nicole Russell

How does it work? Humane AI Pin What is Humane AI Pin?

Humane AI Pin: Love it or Leave It?