On Tuesday, Humane declared that HP had paid $116 million to acquire the majority of its assets. The $499 AI Pins will no longer be sold by the hardware firm. In a blog post, Humane warned consumers who have already bought the Pin that their gadgets will stop working before the end of the month, on February 28, 2025, at 12 p.m. PST.
The business claims that after that date, Humane’s servers won’t be accessible through its AI Pins. Calling, messaging, AI queries and responses, and cloud access will not be possible with the devices. Owners of AI Pins are being advised by Humane to move their valuable images and data right now to an external device.
On February 28, Humane intends to disband its AI Pin customer service staff. According to a frequently asked question, the business claims that consumers who purchased an AI pin during the last ninety days are eligible for a refund, but those who purchased a device prior to that time are not.
The brief, well-known hardware startup is shutting down as a result of the announcement. When Humane introduced its AI Pin in April 2024, it created a stir by positioning it as a smartphone substitute. To develop the device, the Bay Area business, which was started by former Apple executives Bethany Bongiorno and Imran Chaudhri, raised almost $230 million.
However, Humane’s AI Pin caused a dilemma for the company by disappointing a large number of early reviewers and customers. The Verge said that Humane’s returns for the AI Pin began to surpass its sales at one point last summer. To make matters worse, Humane advised consumers to cease using the device’s charging case due to concerns about battery fire. The business, which had previously cost $699 for its AI Pin, reduced the price by $200 in October.
A blog post announcing the acquisition states that HP is purchasing the engineers and product managers from Humane. A new division within HP named HP IQ, which it defines as a “AI innovation lab focused on building an intelligent ecosystem across HP’s products and services,” will be founded on the Humane team services for the future of work.”
Additionally, HP will purchase a portion of Humane’s technologies, such as its CosmOS AI operating system. A recent advertisement from Humane implied that the AI operating system could be used with an Android phone, TV, smart speaker, and car entertainment system. AI might be included into HP printers and PCs using this technology.
According to a Bloomberg story, Humane had attempted to be purchased in May 2024 for a significantly greater sum, ranging from $750 million to $1 billion.
The Rise and Fall of Humane’s AI Pin: A $116M Lesson in Innovation and Adaptation
In the fast-paced world of technology, innovation is often celebrated, but not every groundbreaking idea survives the test of time. The story of Humane’s AI Pin is a testament to this reality. Once hailed as a revolutionary wearable device, the AI Pin has officially met its end, with tech giant HP acquiring Humane’s assets for a staggering $116 million. This acquisition marks the closing chapter of a bold experiment in wearable AI, while simultaneously opening new doors for the future of personal technology.
The Vision Behind Humane’s AI Pin
Humane, a startup founded by former Apple executives Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, set out to redefine how humans interact with technology. Their flagship product, the AI Pin, was envisioned as a screenless wearable device that could seamlessly integrate into daily life. Powered by artificial intelligence, the pin promised to deliver contextual information, manage tasks, and even act as a personal assistant—all without the need for a smartphone.
The concept was ambitious: a minimalist, unobtrusive device that could reduce our reliance on screens while enhancing productivity. It was designed to be worn on clothing, blending fashion with functionality. For a moment, it seemed like Humane was on the verge of creating the next big thing in tech.
The Challenges That Led to Its Demise
Despite its innovative design and lofty promises, the AI Pin faced significant hurdles. One of the biggest challenges was user adoption. In a world dominated by smartphones, convincing consumers to embrace a completely new form of interaction proved difficult. The AI Pin required users to rethink their relationship with technology, and for many, the learning curve was too steep.
Additionally, the device faced technical limitations. Early reviews highlighted issues with battery life, accuracy, and the overall user experience. While the AI Pin was designed to be a standalone device, it often struggled to deliver on its promises, leaving users frustrated and skeptical.
Another critical factor was competition. The wearable tech market is fiercely competitive, with established players like Apple, Samsung, and Google dominating the space. Humane’s AI Pin, despite its unique approach, couldn’t keep up with the rapid advancements and ecosystem integration offered by these tech giants.
HP’s Strategic Acquisition
In a surprising turn of events, HP stepped in to acquire Humane’s assets for $116 million. While the AI Pin may be dead, the technology and talent behind it are far from obsolete. HP’s acquisition signals a strategic move to bolster its own portfolio in the wearable tech and AI space.
For HP, this deal is about more than just acquiring intellectual property—it’s about gaining access to Humane’s innovative team and their expertise in human-centric design. Chaudhri and Bongiorno, with their extensive experience at Apple, bring a wealth of knowledge that could help HP develop new products that bridge the gap between technology and humanity.
What This Means for the Future of Wearable Tech
The demise of Humane’s AI Pin serves as a reminder that even the most promising ideas can falter in the face of real-world challenges. However, it also highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in the tech industry. While the AI Pin may not have succeeded as a standalone product, its underlying technology could find new life under HP’s stewardship.
This acquisition also raises important questions about the future of wearable technology. As AI continues to evolve, how will companies balance innovation with practicality? Can wearable devices truly replace smartphones, or will they serve as complementary tools? The answers to these questions will shape the next generation of personal technology.
Lessons Learned from Humane’s Journey
Humane’s story is a cautionary tale for startups and tech enthusiasts alike. It underscores the importance of understanding market dynamics, addressing user needs, and delivering a seamless experience. Innovation alone is not enough—execution is key.
At the same time, Humane’s journey is a celebration of bold ideas and the courage to challenge the status quo. While the AI Pin may be gone, its legacy lives on in the lessons it has taught the tech industry.
Conclusion
The rise and fall of Humane’s AI Pin is a fascinating chapter in the history of wearable technology. While the device may not have achieved its full potential, its impact on the industry is undeniable. With HP’s acquisition, the story is far from over. As the tech world watches closely, one thing is certain: the quest for innovation continues, and the next big breakthrough could be just around the corner.
In the end, Humane’s AI Pin may have been a fleeting star, but its light will continue to inspire future innovators to dream big and push boundaries. After all, in the world of technology, failure is often the first step toward success.