HP Acquires Humane, AI Pin Shut Down Immediately

Chandrakanta@2004

02-20 11:16

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Humane, the startup behind the AI Pin, has officially been acquired by HP, leading to the abrupt discontinuation of its ambitious wearable device. The company has ceased sales of the $499 AI-powered gadget with immediate effect, marking an unexpected and rapid end to its short-lived journey in the consumer tech space.


In a statement to customers, Humane confirmed that existing AI Pins will become non-functional as of February 28, 2025, at 12 PM PST. This means that all features of the device, including its AI-driven assistant and cloud-based capabilities, will cease to operate. The sudden shutdown leaves existing users with a costly but now obsolete piece of hardware, raising concerns about the longevity and sustainability of AI-driven consumer electronics.

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The AI Pin was introduced with the promise of redefining human-device interaction, featuring a screenless, voice-first interface powered by advanced artificial intelligence. However, its high price, mixed reviews, and practical limitations may have contributed to its early demise. Humane had positioned the product as an alternative to smartphones, but adoption remained niche, and the company struggled to maintain momentum.

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HP's acquisition of Humane signals a potential shift in how large tech corporations view AI-focused hardware startups. While details of HP's future plans remain undisclosed, the move suggests an interest in AI-driven interfaces and wearable computing. Whether HP will integrate Humane's technology into its own ecosystem or pivot entirely remains to be seen.


For AI Pin users, this development is undoubtedly disappointing, as they now face a total loss of functionality. It also raises broader questions about the risks of investing in cloud-dependent hardware, especially from emerging companies. As the industry moves forward, Humane's rise and fall will likely serve as a cautionary tale for both startups and consumers alike.

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